Author and journalist Holly Black has released a new book titled 'The Story of Printmaking: A Global History of Art', published by Yale University Press. The publication traces the evolution of the printed image from its 9th-century origins in East Asia through the innovations of Old Masters like Albrecht Dürer and Rembrandt to modern digital techniques. Drawing on her training at the London College of Printing, Black demystifies complex technical processes such as intaglio and mezzotint while highlighting both canonical figures like Picasso and influential but lesser-known pioneers like Robert Blackburn.
The book addresses a significant gap in art history literature by focusing specifically on the printed image rather than the history of the printing press or journalism. By elevating printmaking from a misunderstood technical craft to a vital pillar of global art history, Black underscores its democratic nature and its role in the careers of major artists. The inclusion of figures like Blackburn and the Harlem Renaissance scene further expands the narrative, ensuring that the history of multiples is recognized as a sophisticated and essential medium of artistic expression.