Proposal Abstract

The Centre for Fine Print Research, based at the University of Bristol in the UK, is the only place on earth where scientists work next to artists. Their collaboration leads to the exploration of new methods of printing with applications not only functional but also beautiful. They span from the revival of historical photomechanical printing methods, via 2.5D recordings of archaeological artefacts and making the artistic heritage accessible to a wider audience, especially the visually impaired, to 3D-printed ceramics and the simulation of human organs for surgical training. Printing of musical interfaces for the composition of digital music and functional graphene on fabric for fashion and healthcare are projects which complement the traditional editioning for artists like Sir Peter Blake. We would like to showcase that mastery of traditional methods, modern materials and technologies and critical exchange between art and science leads to surprising, beautiful and innovative results.