Katie Geha, the new director of Tandem Press in Madison, brings a unique perspective to the world of art. With a background in running galleries out of unconventional spaces, Geha is no stranger to pushing boundaries and redefining what art can be. Her previous experiences running SOFA gallery out of her apartment and transforming an old tire store into a contemporary art space in Athens, Georgia, showcase her belief that art can and should happen anywhere.
Now, Geha has set her sights on leading Tandem Press, a fine art print publishing organization located in Madison. Affiliated with the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s School of Education’s Art Department, Tandem Press has been working with artists to create prints since 1987. Geha’s arrival marks a new chapter for the organization, as she aims to rethink and redefine Tandem Press for its next phase.
One of the aspects that drew Geha to Tandem Press was the opportunity to collaborate with artists on ambitious print projects. During a tour of the studio and gallery, Geha highlighted the intricate and meticulous process involved in creating fine art prints. Collaborative printmaker Patrick Smyczek explained the painstaking process of creating a 62-color screen print, emphasizing that every aspect of the print is done by hand in close collaboration with the artist.
At Tandem Press, the focus is on creating prints that are not only visually stunning but also conceptually rich. Artists like Derrick Adams and Alison Saar have worked with Tandem Press to bring their unique visions to life through prints that challenge traditional notions of printmaking. The studio is a hive of activity, with employees and students working diligently to bring these projects to fruition.
In addition to creating prints, Tandem Press also actively engages with the art community through exhibitions and art fairs. The Apex Gallery, located on Commercial Avenue, showcases the prints created at Tandem Press and hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year. Geha emphasized the importance of showcasing a diverse range of artists, including artists of color and Indigenous artists, to highlight the breadth and depth of talent in the art world.
Looking ahead, Geha envisions expanding Tandem Press’s public programs and events to engage with the broader community in Madison. By opening up the doors of Tandem Press to the public, Geha hopes to foster a greater appreciation for fine art prints and establish Tandem Press as a cultural gem in the community.
In conclusion, Katie Geha’s leadership at Tandem Press heralds an exciting new chapter for the organization. With a focus on collaboration, experimentation, and inclusivity, Geha is poised to take Tandem Press to new heights and solidify its reputation as a leading institution in the world of fine art printmaking.