Scaling Access: The Role of Print Studios and Publishers in Expanding The Market to New Collectors

This panel discussion explores the role of print studios, publishers, and art fairs in making print collecting more accessible and expanding the market to new collectors. The session highlights how community-building, innovation, and affordability are driving the evolution of the print market, making art ownership more inclusive. The discussion also addresses the challenges and opportunities that come with a rapidly changing market.

The panel features Dario Illari, founder of Jealous Gallery and Print Studio, an eclectic art space in East London that fosters collaboration between artists, printers, and collectors. Also joining is Jack Bullen, founder and director of The Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair, which has grown into a major event in the London art scene since its launch in 2015. Alongisde Matt Lord of Avant Arte. Together, they share insights on how print fairs and studios serve as a bridge between artists and collectors, creating new avenues for engagement.

A central theme of the discussion is the importance of accessibility. Print studios and publishers play a crucial role in democratising art ownership, offering collectors an entry point into the market through limited editions and affordable works. The speakers also discuss how technology and online platforms have further expanded access, making it easier for collectors worldwide to discover and purchase prints.

The session concludes with predictions for the future of print collecting, emphasising that affordability, accessibility, and community-driven engagement will continue to shape the market. The panellists encourage collectors to explore print fairs, engage with print studios, and consider prints as both cultural artefacts and investment pieces.