Compilation from several previous programmes on prints and printmakers. 1. It covers the history of printing, and printing in New Zealand, including the early printmakers of the Quoin Club and the father of New Zealand art printing, E Mervyn Taylor. The different techniques used are demonstrated by John Drawbridge who talks about their origins and the work produced. Rodney Fumpston talks about the inspiration from his garden. -- 2. There are various reasons an artist decides to use a print to express an idea and painter Pat Hanley thinks the advantage of prints is both their graphic qualities and that a lot of people can have them. Printmaker Mervyn Williams can make the decision of whether to print or paint by convenience of getting an idea on paper. -- 3. The process of lithography is laborious and Katherine Shine demonstrates the steps involved. Brian James specialises in wood block printing. -- 4. Kate Coolahan makes her own paper and demonstrates the process. Stanley Palmer is one of the few printmakers who makes his own ink. Carol Shepherd makes what she calls 'assemblages', compositions based around an traditional etching. Paul Hartigan uses colour photocopy machines to create his works - but isn't that just reproduction? -- 5. The programme discusses how printmakers get around the problem of owning printing machines, and the specialist galleries, like Ginko Studios in Christchurch are being set up to help them, and market their work. Architect Ron Sang has designed a studio for printer Malcolm Waugh so his work and that of others can be produced, framed and displayed for sale. Portfolio Gallery in Auckland is also selling prints widely. But, machinery is not always needed and Harold Coop prints by hand, or feet.

Weekly news and current affairs on the arts from Television New Zealand (TVNZ).