In the latest episode of Platemark, I sit down with the multi-talented printmaker and educator, Myles Calvert. We talk about Myles’s beginnings in Ontario, Canada, his educational odyssey that led him to the UK, and finally to his current role at Alfred University’s Institute for Electronic Arts (IEA).
Myles Calvert’s journey into printmaking was not immediate. It was during his undergraduate years under the influence of British professor Jean Madison that prints became a clear path for him. His educational pursuit took him from the University of Guelph to the prestigious Camberwell College of Arts in the UK. After years abroad, including work at notable galleries like the National Portrait Gallery, Myles faced the reality of deportation and returned to Canada.
From London to Alfred University
After arriving back in Canada, Calvert’s career continued to evolve. He worked at a laser engraving company and later in a temporary position at his alma mater before accepting a role at Alfred University. His path zigzagged through academia, including a tenure track position at Winthrop University, but ultimately he landed at Alfred University, where he assumed the role of Director of the IEA.
Insights on Printmaking and Art
Throughout our conversation, Myles shares fascinating insights into both the technical side and the conceptual rigor of printmaking. He elaborates on combining traditional techniques with new media and the exotic mix of tools available at the IEA — from woodblocks to CRT screens. He stresses the importance of leveraging technology in art, a perspective not always shared by traditionalists in the field.
Residency and Community Engagement at IEA
We talk about the residency program at the IEA, which offers artists the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology alongside traditional methods. He details the application process, highlighting the emphasis on research and a strong proposal, and explains the new requirement for residents to engage with the student community, a change geared toward enriching the academic environment.
Exhibiting and Understanding Art
Myles and I engage in a deeper conversation about exhibition practices and the intrinsic value of art. He challenges the norms of how art is presented and preserved, suggesting that not all art is meant to last forever. Myles’s perspective that the process of art is as important as the final product offers a refreshing take on artistic value and intent.
A Glance at AI and the Future of Art
A compelling segment of our discussion delves into artificial intelligence in art. Myles shares his experiences discussing AI in a global context, including a trip to China for the IAPA conference. While acknowledging the controversies and ethical questions AI presents, he encourages artists to view it as another tool in their creative arsenal.
Engaging Students and Fostering Growth
Myles concludes by discussing the role of education in art, the challenges of teaching, and the rewarding experience of guiding students through personal and artistic development. His candid discussion emphasizes both the importance of critique and the value of allowing students to find their own voices.
In Closing
Myles Calvert’s unique journey through the arts, his embrace of new technologies, and his commitment to education provide an inspiring narrative for both aspiring artists and seasoned professionals. He embodies a blend of tradition and innovation, urging the printmaking community — and the art world at large — to value both as essential components of artistic expression. Our conversation offers listeners a multifaceted look into the world of contemporary art through the eyes of an artist deeply engaged in both creation and instruction.