Tugboat Printshop, founded by Valerie Lueth, is celebrating its 20th anniversary. The studio specializes in meticulously hand-carved woodblock prints, often using up to five distinct blocks layered with colorful ink to create detailed images of flora and fauna. Editions are typically limited to around 100 prints. To mark the milestone, the shop is offering a limited-time discount on original woodcut prints, and Lueth continues to share behind-the-scenes images on Flickr and Instagram.
This anniversary highlights the enduring appeal of traditional printmaking techniques in a digital age. Tugboat Printshop’s dedication to craftsmanship and small-scale production represents a niche but vital segment of the contemporary art world, where handmade processes are increasingly valued. The studio’s longevity also underscores the importance of independent artist-run presses in sustaining printmaking as an art form.