The City of Fremont's Olive Hyde Art Gallery is presenting 'Matrix: A Printmaking Exhibition,' a showcase that explores the art and process of printmaking by displaying finished works alongside their original matrices—the plates, blocks, or screens used to create them. The exhibition features linocut, woodcut, etching, engraving, lithography, collagraph, and monotype works by 23 participating artists, and includes informational panels, printmaking vocabulary, and artist tools to demystify the process. An opening reception will be held on June 26, and unframed prints will be available for purchase.
This exhibition matters because it offers the public a rare behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship and innovation behind contemporary printmaking, an art form that is often misunderstood or overlooked. By displaying matrices alongside finished prints and providing educational materials, the show makes the technical process accessible to both experienced art enthusiasts and curious newcomers, fostering a deeper appreciation for this versatile and enduring medium. The free admission and community-focused setting at a local gallery underscore the importance of accessible arts education in the Tri-City area.