Two Rivers Printmaking Studio in White River Junction, Vermont, has organized a collaborative project called "Out of the Box," in which ten artist-members exchanged boxes of found objects anonymously and created prints inspired by the items they received. The resulting works, ranging from woodblock and solarplate prints to mokulito lithographs, are on view at the studio through June 30. The project was suggested by member Carole McNamee, who previously tried a similar prompt at ArtSpace Maynard in Massachusetts.
The project matters because it demonstrates how simple, playful prompts can push artists beyond their comfort zones and strengthen community bonds within a shared studio space. It also highlights the breadth of printmaking techniques practiced at Two Rivers, which is now planning to expand into an adjacent former screen-printing shop, potentially reviving that medium. The exhibition underscores the value of local artist-run spaces in fostering experimentation and collaboration.