Prints by members of Hot Bed Press in Salford will be exhibited in the cafe from 25th September until 4th November. But who or what is Hot Bed Press?

Hot Bed Press (HBP) is a printmaking studio now in its 12th year and, since 2004, is housed in refurbished premises in a regeneration area of Salford. Established in 1993 by a group of artists determined to provide a printmaking facility in Manchester, its core aim is to promote and encourage excellence in printmaking, both as practised traditionally and through more experimental approaches.

Hot Bed Press has equipment and materials needed for making screen, relief and intaglio (etching) prints and will soon be fully equipped digitally. The workspace, on the first floor of a light industrial building also incorporates 9 individual studios for artists who all have keyholder membership in addition to being involved in the day to day running of the organisation, from organising exhibitions and open studios to teaching, printroom management and outreach activities.

The bulk of membership is made up of Associate Members who need prior experience of printmaking in order to join and who then pay an annual fee to come and use the resources. For those with no experience who may want to join, HBP runs a variety of courses, including weekend workshops, weeklong Summer and Easter schools and the ongoing introductory evening course, now entering its 3rd year.

HBP's Open Studios Weekend takes place on October 14th and 15th from 10am- 4pm. Why not take a look around the premises, pick up the latest information on courses and  maybe buy an original print or two.