An art exhibition, 2009 Resident Artists Exhibition, featuring the work of Mark Franchino, chair of the Clarion University Art Department, opened Feb. 6 at the Artists Image Resource (AIR), 518 Foreland St., Pittsburgh.
Franchino was one of three 2009 resident artists at AIR along with Bill Fick, who teaches printmaking at Duke University, and Dutch artist Stefan Hoffman, who has been involved in numerous projects in the United States and abroad over the past several years. His artwork continues to explore work that incorporates printmaking sensibilities into broader investigations of image, object and the residue of act and action.
He earned his B.F.A. at the State University of New York at Buffalo. He found his passion for printmaking at the University of Delaware where he earned his M.F.A. He joined Clarion University's faculty in 2005 and is currently the chair of the art department and assistant professor of printmaking.
The Milton Fine Foundation provides support for the annual cycle of resident artists' projects and create the 2009 Projects Portfolio. For the past several years, the resident artists' projects have provided the engine for the studio's activities.
These projects have allowed for the creation of a laboratory environment that truly focuses on expanding the practices of individual artists. Each year it pursues individual artists' projects over the course of the entire year, and upon completion, presents an exhibition and creates a portfolio of prints. This year the Artists Image Resource supported three artists whose work has influenced almost every visible aspect of the organization-from educational outreach material, to in-house production methods, to the look of our bathroom doors.
AIR is an artist-run organization that integrates the production of fine art printwork with innovative educational programs that explore the creative process. AIR provides print and imaging services to professional artists and educators. Its goal is to maintain an active and vital imaging laboratory that supports artists and facilitates creative activity.
Clarion University is the high-achieving, nationally recognized, comprehensive university that delivers a personal and challenging academic experience.