First Impressions: Printers’ Proofs of Works by Great 20th Century Artists is now open at the Victoria Art Gallery in Bath and runs until 6 July 2025, offering visitors a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art of printmaking, as well as a children’s trail and a chance to have a go yourself!
Featuring works by leading figures such as Lucian Freud, Frank Auerbach, Bridget Riley and Peter Blake, First Impressions showcases dozens of printers’ proofs — the experimental stages of the printmaking process that are rarely seen by the public. These works reveal the trial-and-error journey behind some of the most iconic prints of modern art, highlighting the expert craftsmanship of the printers who collaborate closely with artists.
Visitors can discover how, during the proofing stage, artists and master printers work together to perfect each piece, experimenting with different inks, papers and adjustments to the printing plates. While trial proofs are often discarded, the exhibition brings together a remarkable collection of surviving examples, shedding light on the immense skill and patience involved in their creation.
Among the highlights are 12 prints by Lucian Freud, one of Britain’s most celebrated figurative artists, including etchings of performance artist Leigh Bowery, whose work is currently featured at Tate Modern. Also on display is Bridget Riley’s 1972 Coloured Greys series — mesmerising Op art screenprints that seem to ripple and flow before the eyes — and works from Peter Blake’s Alice in Wonderland series, created during his Ruralist period when he worked near Bath.
First Impressions offers a fascinating exploration of the hidden layers of creativity, technical mastery, and collaboration that underpin the world of printmaking.
Nathalie Levi, Senior Curator at Victoria Art Gallery, explained, “Our new exhibition celebrates the artistry, skill and experimentation that goes into printmaking. These rare proofs reveal how well-known artists like Freud and Riley work with their printers to refine and reimagine their art until they reached the final image. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the creative journey that usually stays behind closed doors.”
Visitors can discover more about the works and artists with an audio tour on the Bloomberg Connects app, and families can explore the artworks with a children’s trail and have a go at creating their own artwork in the printshop.
First Impressions: Printers’ Proofs of Works by Great 20th Century Artists is open now in the Lower Gallery, Victoria Art Gallery until 6 July 2025.
Entry is £8 for adults, £3.50 for visitors aged 6–18, with free entry for children under 6. Concessions and family tickets are available. Bath residents can enjoy free admission with a Discovery Card.
