August 12-September 27, 2025
Inspired by the collaborative spirit and democratic tradition of printmaking, PrintAustin’s annual Trade Portfolio invites artists from across the country to participate in a unique print exchange. Each artist creates an edition of 15 original prints, receiving a portfolio of 10 prints in return—each one a testament to the diversity and innovation within contemporary printmaking. The remaining five prints from each edition are retained by PrintAustin and presented as part of our ongoing programming.
For this year’s edition, we introduced a new twist to the format: rather than printing on paper, participants were asked to print on cotton handkerchiefs. This material shift transforms each work into a textile-based flag, allowing the collection to be installed in the style of Tibetan prayer flags—suspended in the air, gently moving with the wind, and offering moments of reflection and beauty in public space.
This mobile installation aims to spread the ethos of printmaking beyond gallery walls, bringing the work of artists into conversation with new audiences and environments. The handkerchief flags first debuted at the St. John Branch of the Austin Public Library, and now continue their journey across Texas, with the Bath House Cultural Center in Dallas serving as one of our featured exhibition sites.
Whether viewed as banners of personal expression, acts of communal exchange, or echoes of a global visual language, these handkerchief prints carry the legacy of printmakers working together in solidarity—across distance, disciplines, and traditions.
Theme
With so much happening in the world right now, PrintAustin wanted to create a space for optimism and inspiration. They sought work that reflected hope—something that artists are looking looking forward to, a goal, an achievement, or a bright spot on the horizon.
About PrintAustin
PrintAustin Collective was co-founded in 2013 by Austin-based printmaker Cathy Savage to bring attention to the vibrant printmaking scene in Austin. Together with Elvia Perrin and a group of local print-related advisors, they produced the first PrintAustin month-long festival in 2014. PrintAustin has grown to include over 60 print-focused events serving thousands of audience members annually, with returning and new participants each year.
In collaboration with professional printmaking studios, local galleries, curators, and individual artists, PrintAustin showcases the work of contemporary printmakers from across the world and educates the public on the various techniques in printmaking. Through key partnerships with universities, museums, and commercial galleries, PrintAustin highlights the historical and cultural significance of this artform, hoping to inspire new and seasoned collectors to connect with artists working in this medium.
Auction
The artworks in this installation are available for purchase through an auction that runs until September 27, 2025. While PrintAustin would love a straight up donation to their organization, know that any purchases you make at their auction also goes to support their programming. We have options to buy now for each trade print or to enter the auction starting at $15. If you purchase multiple prints, we will combine shipping costs. To see what’s available, visit https://givebutter.com/c/BWkH0P to access the auction page. PrintAustin will ship purchased items directly to buyers.
For more information, visit www.printaustin.org
