Gisborne Report march - may - 2026
Jean Johnstone
An imported Gunning etching press arrived in a 200 kg flatpack in January to herald in our 50th year as a printmaking group. After a challenging two hours of construction, our printmakers are now appreciating the precision it offers in various printmaking processes. ‘Robin’, named after our generous benefactor, has joined our much-loved Bendini and our reliable smaller Japanese made press. In 1979, the group organised a print auction in the Gisborne Art Gallery with proceeds going towards the purchase of a reliable etching press. Penny Ormerod had one in mind. Wellington printmaker and Print Council member Gwen Morris wanted to sell her Bendini press. Our group donated a range of our recent prints and Penny invited several of her first Print Council friends to support the good cause auction. Along with a grant from the then Queen Elizabeth 2 Arts Council, Gwen’s Bendini was purchased. Our sturdy smaller press was donated by the family of the late Doreen Costello who printed with our group. The three presses might entice a printmaking residency in the near future.
Teressa Matthews using Gisborn’s new and absorbed
the new Gunning printmakers
This will be my last report as PCANZ’s Tairāwhiti Regional Rep. As our group heads into a strong and evolving technical reliance promotional future, Torri Stewart will now take on this role as we continue to showcase and promote the engrossing and satisfying art of printmaking. With the emphasis of the Council's plan towards offering possible courses on line etc., Torri's skills and experience will be helpful in this plan over the next year or so.
I have just had the privilege of facilitating an introduction class with our very experienced printmaker, Teressa Matthews will teach aluminium etching at the end of February. As usual, it’s all go in Gisborne.