In histories of art as in contemporary practice, we rarely consider where ink wiped off a printing plate ends up or how reams of trial proofs get recycled. When we celebrate end products of creation, we silence and conceal the flows of waste to which all making inevitably contributes.

NET-ZERO PRESS, a new impact project funded by the University of St Andrews and led by Dr Ruth Ezra.

It aims to work with contemporary stakeholders, educators, and practitioners across the printmaking landscape of Scotland to "start from trash" as we trace waste flows in print shops and act on these data to propose strategies for making studio spaces (from classrooms to open-access workshops) less toxic and more sustainable.

Interested participants should prepare a 10-minute presentation wherein they tell the story of one material that features in their printmaking practice, tracking its lifespan from acquisition through consumption, transformation, and disposal.

The tone is meant to be light and exploratory, and the company congenial.

We will conclude the workshop with a guided tour of the DCA print room, with a focus on waste flows and reuse.

Any artists presenting will be paid a stipend of four hours at the Scottish Artists’ Union rate, based on years of experience.

An additional hour of comfort break/lunch will be provided as part of the day, as well as an optional closing half-hour of tea and chat.

Local economy travel expenses (train/bus) to and from Dundee city will be reimbursed. 

Interested?

Complete the submission form with a description of your material; a 150-word summary of your object story; and a CV by 15 September 2025.

Participants will be notified of acceptance by September 21.

If you live outside of the UK but would like to attend in a virtual capacity, please also feel free to get in touch. 

Learn more about the project: http://netzeropress.wp.st-andrews.ac.uk