International Print Triennial Krakow Poland is celebrating the 40th Anniversary of its founding this year. I’ve mentioned this international print triennial several times before as one of the top ones in the world. It is notable for the numerous additional exhibitions that continue in other countries and venues long after the Krakow shows end.

I’ve been fortunate that I’ve been allowed to participate in several of these triennials – in 1994, 2000 and 2003. I’m eager to participate again this year so I have just sent in my contact information and two images of my work to them so that they will send me the application form and submission information. If you are a printmaker, I highly recommend that you do too!

In case you didn’t know, most international print competitions are juried from either slides, CDs or actual works that the artist has to submit, along with usually a jury fee. A catalogue of the selected works is usually printed and given to all the participants. Various monetary prizes are awarded for the best works and customarily the grand prize winner of the last triennial is given a solo show in the next triennial. Vancouverite Davida Kidd was this last grand prix winner in Krakow, and will be there this year – an exciting and great honour!

The Krakow Triennial website is an exciting resource for printmakers and anyone interested in the leading edge in contemporary printmaking around the world – particularly with the very thought provoking discussions in the FORUMs in 2003 and one that is now underway in advance of the coming triennial.

Keep on top of dates and submission information for other international print competitions. Finally, view the works of many printmakers around the world at ICONDATA.