Prints ranging from etchings and wood-cuts to screen prints and lino-cuts will go on display in Sudbury today.

East Anglian Daily Times: Artists prepare for the upcoming exhibition at Gainsborough Printworks in Sudbury. Geoff Winckles inspects one of his prints.Artists prepare for the upcoming exhibition at Gainsborough Printworks in Sudbury. Geoff Winckles inspects one of his prints. (Image: Archant)

The ‘Prints at St Peter’s’ exhibition will feature work produced by artists from Gainsborough’s House Print Workshop.

The show will have special significance this year, as it will coincide with celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of the unveiling of Gainsborough’s statue on Market Hill. The statue is Britain’s only memorial to the world-famous artist.

The workshop, based at Gainsborough’s House, was established more than 30 years ago and now has about 170 members ranging from professionals to people who are completely new to the art form.

The workshop’s joint chairman, Geoff Winckles, said modern printmaking techniques enable a wide range of imaginative work to be produced.

He said: “The artists’ work in this exhibition features both traditional and cutting-edge methods, from etching and engraving to screen-printing and lithography. Various prints have embraced digital photography as a source of imagery.” The work on display explores new and innovative themes and ideas, as well as respecting traditional techniques, Mr Winckles said, adding: “There is something about the scale and immediacy of the printed image, whether in dramatic colour or the stark beauty of black and white images, which people really respond to. Only print-making offers this diversity in such a direct and compelling way and at affordable prices.”

Because the show coincides with the Gainsborough centenary celebrations, the exhibition will feature a section of prints relating to a Gainsborough theme. Framed and unframed prints and cards will be available to buy.

The show is at St Peter’s Church, Market Hill, from today until Saturday, from 10am-5pm.