Is Printmaking Obsolete? An Industry Perspective

At first glance, the local bookstore may appear to be devoid of warm ambiance, as the number of customers dwindles. Yet, it is crucial to recognize that print is far from being obsolete.

Why Print Endures

This medium holds a mystique that cannot be replicated by digital formats. Printed books and materials possess an essence that a 'pad' or digital device simply cannot emulate.

A Personal Journey Through Printmaking

Discipline graduates with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fine Art Printmaking in 2009. Personal observation in their school during 2004 indicated a declining interest in this form of art. However, by 2018, when the artist entered a graduate program, the entire printmaking program had entered a cancellation stage.

Despite academic institutions moving towards a more digitized approach to art creation, printmaking remains a beloved craftsmanship practiced not only by artists but also by traditional print shops worldwide.

Modern Printmaking in the Digital Age

Despite the rise of digital printing, the industry for traditional printmaking and offset printing continues to thrive. For instance, in the US, 542.6 million books were sold in 2022, illustrating that print remains a thriving industry.

Advances in Digital Printing

While some might argue that digital printing is superior in some instances, several factors ensure the continued relevance of offset printing. Modern commercial laser systems have achieved a quality level that sometimes surpasses that of offset. This technological advancement has led to a new concept known as 'print-on-demand,' which allows for printing only what is needed, reducing waste and lowering costs for small-scale productions.

Additionally, laser and inkjet printing are more environmentally friendly, as they do not require the storage of printed materials and reduce the use of harmful chemicals. This trend is especially significant in the traditional mail and advertising industries, where there is a noticeable uptick in direct mail being printed and mailed.

Offset Printing's Resilience

Despite the advances in digital printing, large-scale offset printers remain in use, with their numbers decreasing but not disappearing entirely. These massive machines continue to be profitable, serving industries ranging from commercial to governmental entities, thus demonstrating that they are not obsolete yet.

In conclusion, while digital printing has made significant strides, printmaking and offset printing remain indispensable. The industry is adapting, ensuring that traditional art forms can still thrive in the digital age.