Jenny Gunning, founder of Ironbridge Fine Arts and lead judge for this year’s printmaking competition, offers her expert advice for entrants looking to make their work stand out. With years of experience as a master printmaker, Jenny brings a discerning eye to the judging process and is passionate about celebrating creativity in all its forms.

This competition is open to printmakers across all experience levels – from emerging talents and students to seasoned professionals – and we warmly welcome submissions from artists both in the UK and internationally.

1. What forms of Printmaking can you enter?

As a judge, I’m excited to see a wide variety of work this year. We’re open to all traditional and experimental forms of printmaking—from etching, mezzotint, and photo-etching, to collagraph, lino, woodcut, monoprint, lithography, mokulito, cyanotype, and screen printing and everything in between.

Prints can be made on paper or other surfaces, and you’re welcome to combine techniques or use printmaking as part of a collage. We’re here to celebrate the breadth and creativity within printmaking—so however you work, we’d love to see it.

2. Choose work that reflects your voice

When selecting pieces to submit, think about what represents you as a printmaker. We’re not just looking for technical perfection – we want to see work that feels authentic, thoughtful, and connected to your ideas or experiences.

This could be a piece that explores a personal theme, uses materials in an unusual way, or reflects the type of imagery and techniques you return to often. Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or have years of experience, it’s your creative voice that matters most.

A strong entry doesn’t have to be complex – it just needs to feel intentional.

Ask yourself: does this piece say something about how I think, feel, or see the world through print? If the answer is yes, it’s likely a great choice.

3. Submit high-quality images

The images you send to us are the first impression judges get of your work, so make them count. Where possible, scan your work at no less than 300 dpi or of you are photographing your work, use natural, even lighting and photograph your print straight on or from above. Avoid shadows, glare, or distractions in the background, and make sure the print is clean and flat.

If the work is framed or installed, feel free to include a second photo showing it in context – but always include one clear image of the print itself. No filters or heavy editing – we want to see your print as it truly is.

4. Pay attention to presentation

Neat edges, clean paper, and a signed, titled print all help your work stand out. Whether mounted or unmounted, make sure it’s flat and free from smudges or creases. Good presentation shows you value your work – and that makes a strong impression.

5. Read the brief carefully

Before submitting, take a few minutes to double-check the entry guidelines. Make sure your print meets any size limits, that your images and documents are in the correct format, and that you’ve included everything required.

Missing details – like forgetting to title your work or uploading the wrong image file – can delay your entry or risk it not being considered fully. Following the brief shows professionalism and helps us review your work smoothly and fairly. It’s a small step that can make a big difference!

6. Can I re-apply this year?

If you’ve entered before and weren’t selected, please don’t let that put you off. Many artists apply multiple times before being chosen, and we often see incredible growth in their work from one year to the next. Every submission is a step forward – and a fresh opportunity to share where you are in your printmaking journey.

7. Keep your artist statement clear and authentic

A strong artist statement doesn’t need to be long or full of jargon – just honest and clear. Share what your work is about, what inspired it, and how you made it. Let your personality come through, and try to connect the viewer with your process or ideas. We’re not looking for perfect writing – we just want to understand your work a little more deeply.

 

I’d love to encourage all printmakers to get involved – whether you’re just starting out, still studying, or have been printing for years.

The competition is open to everyone, both here in the UK and internationally, and you can submit up to six pieces.

You will find everything you need to know via our entry in the OLIST. I honestly can’t wait to see what you’re all working on!

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