Ironbridge Fine Arts: Call to Artists
Current Calls. Listed by deadline date
Ironbridge Fine Arts
Printmaking Competition 2025
2025 Printmaking Competition showcasing the very best in printmaking - Enter by 4th August 2025 4pm
We’re delighted to announce that entries are now open for the Ironbridge Fine Arts Printmaking Open 2025 – a global celebration of printmaking excellence — championing the art, honouring the craft, and uniting a worldwide community of printmakers through innovation and tradition.
Open to both UK and International Printmakers, this year’s competition invites artists to submit up to 6 piece...
Open for Entry
Entry Deadline: 04/08/2025, 4pm
Exhibition Location: UK
Exhibition Type: Gallery and Online
Full Details, Entry Terms & Conditions
Ironbridge Fine Arts
Printmaking Competition 2025
2025 Printmaking Competition showcasing the very best in printmaking - Enter by 4th August 2025 4pm
We’re delighted to announce that entries are now open for the Ironbridge Fine Arts Printmaking Open 2025 – a global celebration of printmaking excellence — championing the art, honouring the craft, and uniting a worldwide community of printmakers through innovation and tradition.
Open to both UK and International Printmakers, this year’s competition invites artists to submit up to 6 pieces for the opportunity to gain recognition, expand their audience, and be part of a professionally curated exhibition with over £9,000 in total prizes.
For Selected UK Printmakers:
- Win a Little Thumper Gunning Etching Press, along with an incredible selection of additional prizes – Total prize value of over £8,000 (see below 2025 Printmaking Prize List)
- Featured in our beautifully curated physical exhibition at Ironbridge Fine Arts Gallery in the UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as an online exhibition
- Included in our official printed exhibition catalogue
- Enjoy an exclusive private view afternoon (11th October) with live demos, artist talks, and a chance to connect directly with judges and fellow creatives.
- Students enjoy discounted entry, plus 10 students will be selected to have their work professionally framed for free—courtesy of Centrado Trading and Ironbridge Fine Arts
For Selected International Printmakers:
- Win one of our brand-new Mini Thumper Gunning Etching Press worth £1000 including international shipping.
- Selected artworks will be showcased in the online exhibition.
- Displayed digitally on-screen within our gallery space during the physical exhibition.
- Included in the official printed exhibition catalogueew Mini Thumper Gunning Etching Press worth £1000 including international shipping.
- Selected artworks will be showcased in the online exhibition.
- Displayed digitally on-screen within our gallery space during the physical exhibition.
- Included in the official printed exhibition catalogue
2025 Printmaking Prize List & Sponsor Details
We’re proud to present an extraordinary line-up of prizes generously offered by leading names in the art world. Each award has been thoughtfully curated to celebrate, support, and elevate the practice of printmakers across the UK and beyond.
UK Printmakers Prize
One UK printmaker will receive the Little Thumper Press with blankets and stand from Ironbridge Fine Arts (worth £2,150). A powerful, beautifully engineered press; built to last a lifetime and deliver impeccable prints.
International Printmakers Prize
One international printmaker will receive a Table-top Mini Thumper Press with blankets (worth £1,000 including international shipping).
East London Printmakers Prize
1 year’s free Associate Membership, box set print of the artist's choice, and an invitation to exhibit at the Festival of Print. An amazing prize and a chance to join and showcase within one of London’s most dynamic printmaking communities.
Ironbridge Colour Prize
A unique opportunity to co-create a custom ink with Ironbridge Fine Arts. You’ll receive 10 pots of your personalised colour, plus your ink will be permanently featured in the Ironbridge Ink Range—a lasting legacy for your studio and the wider printmaking community.
Green Door Printmaking Prize
One printmaker will receive a free printmaking course with the esteemed Green Door Studio—ideal for refining techniques, exploring new processes, and working alongside expert tutors.
The Valley Hotel, Ironbridge Prize
Enjoy a luxurious Dinner, Bed & Breakfast stay for two at The Valley Hotel, including a 3-course meal and a bottle of wine. Perfect for relaxing in the heart of Ironbridge Gorge after a busy season of printmaking.
South West Art Prize
One winner will receive a £150 voucher to spend with South West Art—an ideal opportunity to restock your studio with premium printmaking supplies.
John Purcell Paper Prize
One printmaker will receive £150 in vouchers to spend with John Purcell Paper—renowned for their exceptional range of high-quality papers for printmakers.
Speedball Prize
One lucky Printmaker will be awarded £150 worth of vouchers to use against speedball acrylic screen printing ink.
Centrado Trading Prize
Ten student printmakers will receive conservation-grade framing of their exhibition pieces using Centrado’s newest moulding. A powerful presentation boost that elevates their work to gallery standard.
Lion Picture Framing Prize
Four winning artworks will be professionally framed using a specially selected moulding from Lion—showcasing your prints with the craftsmanship and quality they deserve.
Ironbridge Fine Arts Gallery Prize
Three printmakers will be invited to exhibit as Featured Artists at Ironbridge Fine Arts Gallery in Shropshire—a significant career opportunity offering professional exposure in a respected space.
Essdee Prizes
One winner will receive a £100 voucher and a feature on Essdee’s blog. A second artist will receive £50 in vouchers. Both prizes offer access to high-quality tools essential for relief and block printing.
Fine Art Trade Guild Prize
One printmaker will receive Artist Associate Membership for one year, including access to expert resources, eligibility for the Guild Artists Showcase, and four issues of Art + Framing Today magazine (worth £100).
Leicester Print Workshop Prize
A £100 voucher to use toward workshops or membership—a wonderful way to further your practice in a vibrant, supportive printmaking environment.
TaxAssist Accountants Madeley Prize
A £100 cash prize, recognising creativity and supporting ongoing artistic development.
Cranfield Ink Prizes
Three winners will each receive a set of professional-grade Cranfield inks—a must-have for any serious printmaker.
AW Hainsworth Prize: Five printmakers will receive a luxurious 3.7mm 100% woven wool swanskin printing blanket, renowned for its superior quality and performance.
Roberson & Co Prizes
Two printmakers will receive a specialist printmaking kit, perfect for refining their craft or exploring new techniques.
Printmaking Today Prizes
Printmaking Today Prizes Two artists will receive an annual subscription to Printmaking Today, the essential magazine for contemporary printmakers Plus one additional Artist will have an editorial feature in the magazine!
Ironbridge Pub Company Prize
One printmaker will receive a £50 voucher to spend at a charming local Ironbridge pub—ideal for unwinding after a long print session.
Tagsmart Prize
We’re thrilled to have TagSmart sponsoring this year’s Open. Known for their cutting-edge art authentication and tagging solutions, their prize will be announced soon. Watch this space—it’s set to be a game-changer for artists wanting to protect and validate their work.
Pressing Matters Prize
One lucky printmaker will receive a bundle of five beautifully curated back issues of Pressing Matters magazine—each edition packed with inspiration, global talent, and meaningful stories from the world of printmaking.
Important Dates
Entries Close: 4th August 2025 (4pm)
Selection: 19th August 2025 log in to check if your work has been selected for the Physical & Virtual Exhibition
Artwork Delivery Window: 18th – 20th September 2025 (10 AM – 4 PM)
Private View & Prize Ceremony: 11th October 2025 (1 PM – 5 PM)
Exhibition End Date: 22nd November 2025
Artwork Collection if work is unsold: 28th & 29th November 2025
Submission Procedure
Entries are to be submitted online only via the Olist platform.
Applicants must create an account on Olist to submit their entries.
Enter up to 6 pieces of artwork may be submitted per person
Maximum framed artwork size 50 x 50cm
Entries must include high-quality photographs of the artwork, as well as a description and any relevant information (e.g., technique used, size).
Entry Fee: £22 per piece of artwork (non-refundable).
Student Entrie Fee: £18 per piece of artwork (non-refundable).
Remember, it's your responsibility to ensure your work is eligible before submitting - no refunds will be given.
Judging Pannel
With an outstanding panel of judges, this year’s Printmaking Competition welcomes in-house experts: Jenny Gunning ARBSA – master printmaker and Guild Certified Framer; Dave Gunning BA (Hons) – renowned artist and inventor of the Gunning Etching Press; and Brendan Flynn – RBSA Professor of Art History and curator. Joining them are guest judges: Sam Marshall – printmaker and Royal Drawing School tutor; Jenny McCabe – expressive printmaker and educator; Mark Lord – photographer and printmaker; and Steve Evans – RBSA member and artist, known for his work exploring architecture and geometry through precision drawing and three-dimensional constructivist pieces.
Follow us on Instagram for news and updates: @ironbridgeprintmakers @ironbridgefinearts
Remember, it's your responsibility to ensure your work is eligible before submitting - no refunds will be given.
If you need any technical support when entering the competition please contact lori@oess.uk with your questions and include any relevant screenshots. Lori will get back to you as soon as possible to help resolve the issue.
Call Status: Open for Entry
Exhibition Location: UK
Exhibition Type: Gallery and Online
Entry Deadline: 04/08/2025, 4pm
Exhibition Contact: Sarah@ironbridgefinearts.co.uk
Key Dates
Entries Close: 4th August 2025 (4pm)
Selection: 19th August 2025 log in to check if your work has been selected for the Physical & Virtual Exhibition
Artwork Delivery Window: 18th – 20th September 2025 (10 AM – 4 PM)
Private View & Prize Ceremony: 11th October 2025 (1 PM – 5 PM)
Exhibition End Date: 22nd November 2025
Artwork Collection if work is unsold: 28th & 29th November 2025
Entry Pricing and Concessions
Standard Prices.
Maximum Artwork Entries: 6
First or Single Entry Price: £22.00
Additional Entries: £22.00 per artwork up to 6 artworks.
Student and Under 25s
Maximum Artwork Entries: 6
First or Single Entry Price: £15.00
Additional Entries: £18.00 per artwork up to 6 artworks.
Extra Questions
When entering this call, the organisers request that you answer the following questions.
Terms and Conditions
Eligibility
The competition is open to printmakers worldwide.
All entries must be original works created using printmaking techniques (please see the list of accepted printmaking methods below).
Work must be framed to a minimum of Level 2 Conservation standards. For framing guidelines, please refer to Fine Art Trade Guild standards.
Submission Procedure
Entries are to be submitted online only via the Olist platform.
Applicants must create an account on Olist to submit their entries.
A maximum of 6 pieces of artwork may be submitted per person.
Maximum framed artwork size: 50 x 50 cm.
Entries must include high-quality photographs of the artwork, as well as a description and any relevant information (e.g., technique used, size).
Entry Fee: £22 per piece of artwork submitted
Student Entry Fee: £18 per piece of artwork submitted
Remember, it's your responsibility to ensure your work is eligible before submitting - no refunds will be given.
Types of Printmaking That Can Be Submitted
We invite submissions from printmakers working in the following techniques:
- Etchings using any metal
- Drypoint
- Mezzotint
- Photo-Etching: Solar plate, Dry Film, Photogravure, Photo Emulsion
- Collagraphs: Collage, card cut-out, carborundum, and Tetra-pack.
- Relief Plates: Lino, woodcut, engraving, woodblock, multi-plate, and reductions.
- Monotypes and Monoprints
- Lithography
- Mokulito
- Viscosity Printing
- Letterpress
- Gelli Plate Printing
- Cyanotype
- Silkscreen
- Gyotaku Printmaking
- Botanical Transfer Printing
- Printmaking Collage (Using any of the above Printmaking Processes)
Please note: only original printmaking techniques as detailed above are accepted, not Giclee or reproduction prints.
Selection Process
A selection committee will review all entries.
The committee will select works based on artistic quality, innovation, and relevance to the competition's themes.
The committee's decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into.
Prizes
Top UK Prize: Number 1 Gunning Etching Press
Top International Prize: Mini Thumper Etching Press (shipped worldwide)
Other prizes include vouchers, printmaking materials, and exhibition opportunities. See general details for the full list.
Exhibition Details
Physical Exhibition: Successful UK entries will be displayed in the Ironbridge Fine Arts Gallery.
Online Exhibition: All selected works, including international entries, will be displayed digitally on the gallery's website and through a virtual exhibition. International printmakers will only be included in the online exhibition.
Catalogue: All selected works will be featured in the Printmaking 2025 Catalogue, available for purchase online.
Insurance
Artists are responsible for insuring their own work. The organizers and gallery are not liable for any loss or damage occurring during the exhibition, storage, or transit.
Delivery and Collection
Packaging: When delivering your artwork, please note that Ironbridge Fine Arts will not store any packaging materials. Any items delivered by an overnight courier will not have their packaging stored for return after the exhibition. Artists are responsible for providing their own packaging if they require work to be returned after the exhibition.
Artwork Delivery Window: All selected artwork must be delivered to Ironbridge Fine Arts between 18th – 20th September 2025 (10 AM – 4 PM). Packaging materials must be removed upon delivery, as no storage space is available at the gallery.
Return of Unsold Work: After the exhibition concludes on 22nd November 2025, unsold artwork must be collected between 28th – 29th November 2025. Any work not collected by the end of this period will incur a £10 per day storage fee.
Packaging and Shipping Service
If you would prefer for your unsold artwork to be returned via post, we offer a Packaging & Shipping service at the following rates:
1 Artwork: £35
2 Artworks: £45
3 Artworks: £55
4 Artworks: £65
5 Artworks: £75
6 Artworks: £85
Shipping Disclaimer:
Please note that once the artwork leaves our premises and is handed over to an external courier, Ironbridge Fine Arts is not responsible for any damage or loss during transit. We strongly recommend securing appropriate insurance for your artwork when it is shipped to or from the gallery.
Framing Requirements
UK Applicants:
All submitted work must be framed to a minimum standard of Level 2 Conservation. Only fine art materials and professional framing processes are permitted. Frames must be free from any visible blemishes and securely fitted with appropriate hanging hardware, such as D-rings, cord, strap hangers, or mirror plates.
International Applicants:
As selected works from international applicants will be presented in an online exhibition and featured in the exhibition catalogue, physical framing is not required. Uploaded photographs of the work may show the piece either framed or unframed.
Agreement
By submitting to the exhibition, you agree to the following:
The selection committee’s decision is final.
You authorize Ironbridge Fine Arts to use images of your work for promotional purposes.
All information provided in the submission is accurate, and the work is wholly your own creation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I enter the competition?
You must submit your entry via the Olist platform. Visit our website for a link to create an account and upload your work. All submissions are to be made online; physical entries will not be accepted.
Can I submit more than one piece of artwork?
Yes, you can submit up to 6 pieces of artwork. Each submission will incur an entry fee of £22 (£18 for students).
What are the submission requirements for the artwork?
You must upload a high-quality image of your artwork along with a description of the technique used and the dimensions (including the frame). Ensure your image is between 1-4MB in file size and in JPEG or PNG format.
How do I know if my entry is successful?
You will receive an email notification on 19th August 2025. This will contain a link to log into the Olist platform and confirm if your submission has been accepted for exhibition.
What if my artwork is not selected?
Unfortunately, if your artwork is not selected, it will not be displayed in the exhibition or included in the online catalogue. No refunds are provided for unsuccessful submissions.
Do I need to provide my artwork framed?
Yes, your work must be framed according to Level 2 Conservation standards. The gallery will not accept unframed work. Please refer to Fine Art Trade Guild guidelines for framing specifications.
Can I submit digital prints or giclée reproductions?
No, all submissions must be original prints. Giclée prints, fine art reproductions, or photographs are not eligible for the competition.
Can I change my entry after submission?
Once submitted, you cannot change your entry. Please ensure all details are correct before completing your submission.
What happens if my artwork sells during the exhibition?
If your artwork sells, you will receive 60% of the sale price. The gallery takes a 40% commission, which includes VAT.
When will I get my artwork back if it's not sold?
Unsold work will be returned between 28th – 29th November 2025. Collection details will be provided. Alternatively, you can opt for our Packaging & Shipping service to have your work sent back.
Additional Terms and Conditions:
Data Protection & Privacy
We take your privacy seriously. By entering the competition, you consent to Ironbridge Fine Arts storing and processing your personal information for the purposes of the competition. All data will be handled in accordance with data protection laws, including GDPR, and will not be shared with third parties without your consent.
Artist Agreement for Digital Use
By submitting your work to this competition, you grant Ironbridge Fine Arts permission to use images of your artwork for promotional purposes, including but not limited to online and social media platforms, marketing materials, and the gallery’s website. If you do not wish for your work to be used in this way, please notify us before submission.
Copyright and Reproduction
Artists retain full copyright over their submitted works. However, by entering the competition, you grant Ironbridge Fine Arts the right to use and reproduce images of the submitted artwork for promotional, exhibition, and catalog purposes. Ironbridge Fine Arts does not claim ownership of the artwork, and all sales or licensing arrangements remain the responsibility of the artist.
Payment Process for Vouchers or Prizes
Prize winners will be contacted directly regarding the process for claiming vouchers or prizes. Vouchers must be redeemed within the specified timeframe, and prize items will be sent or made available for collection as per the guidelines provided by the sponsor.
Please Note: The above terms and conditions are provided by the exhibition organisers.
For terms and conditions which apply to the use of the OESS entry system please view below:
OESS Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy