Chicago Print Crawl: Group Show of Prints

An annual, self-guided tour of printmaking production, publishing, exhibition and sales venues throughout the City of Chicago.

Organized by Spudnik Press Cooperative.

The Chicago Print Crawl offers a behind-the-scenes peek into Chicago’s vibrant printmaking industry. 34 eclectic printmaking venues throughout the city are inviting the public to stop by for a day of free activities including studio tours, print sales, hands-on art projects, gallery exhibitions, and printmaking demonstrations.

Chicago has been a hub for commercial printing since the late nineteenth century with dozens of mail order catalogs (Sears Roebuck and Co.), magazines (Time Magazine via RR Donnelley), and maps (Rand McNally) all produced in the area. While the printing industry has undergone tremendous change, the Third Coast continues to boast an impressive spectrum of print shops from private artist studios to commercial facilities to collectives and educational spaces. Some venues proudly house cast iron presses, tradition stone lithography, and analog processes. Other favor digital design, modern technology, or a blend of old and new. Connected to these distinctive production sites are a range of unique galleries, local businesses, and DIY spaces that bring printed items (i.e. stationary, fine art, books, posters, apparel, and more) to an audience of print-enthusiasts, art collectors, and anyone interested in craftsmanship and shopping local.

With open houses in neighborhoods from Evanston to McKinley Park and from Oak Park to Michigan Avenue, participants are invited to print their way through Chicago.

This event is free and open to the public.

Exhibitors map and directory coming soon, along with additional details such as times and locations for special events like print releases, talks, demonstrations, and hands-on workshops.

The map may also be used as a guide to the print venues all year round, but call first to confirm hours and availability.

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Use and watch our hashtag #chicagoprintcrawl