Linocutboy goes to Margate

May 23, 2011

Well, I’m leaving London to set up a print studio by the sea. I’m investigating Hastings and Margate and so far both seem like good options – lots of artistic activity and cheap property. I’ve spent the last two weeks around Margate, meeting like-minded people and seeing what it has to offer. Of course there is the new Turner Contemporary gallery which has just opened and is attracting thousands of new visits, but there is also a vibrant and growing Old Town with galleries, cafes and artists studios galore.

Turner Contemporary from Margate beach

Empty shop units are being snapped up fast but there are still a few left. This old Launderette particularly caught my eye (mainly for its sign) but I think it may be a bit more work than I’m looking for!

Margate is also home to Pushing Print, a growing event which has been running for the past three years. They run an open submission printmaking exhibition with prizes as well as a series of events designed to engage the public in printmaking. One of these is their steam roller printing event, similar to the one I organised at East London Printmakers last year but with a proper coal-fired steam engine.

Off to Hastings this week to check out the competition…