The London Original Print Fair (LOPF), renowned for its rich history and contribution to the print arts, is set to celebrate its 40th anniversary at Somerset House from March 20 to March 23, 2025. The fair first opened its doors back in June 1985 at the Royal Academy of Arts, showcasing just 16 print dealers. This year’s event showcases its growth, now featuring over 40 exhibitors, including notable names like Abbott & Holder and Hauser & Wirth.
Helen Rosslyn, who became the fair's director in 1987, recalls the early days with fondness. “I couldn’t help but feel nervous back then, wondering if anyone would show up. Many of the dealers were specialists and, believe it or not, were offered packed lunches along with champagne at closing time!” Despite the modest beginnings, the fair quickly became known for its informal and accessible nature, emulating the vibe of Portobello Road.
Reflecting on how the print scene has changed, Rosslyn notes, “Now, it’s challenging to find dates for fairs without clashes. The market is much more crowded.” After relocating to Somerset House two years ago due to scheduling changes following the pandemic, LOPF has expanded its reach beyond Old Master prints, focusing instead on contemporary editions. This shift mirrors broader trends within the art world, as many younger dealers prefer modern works.
According to Rosslyn, “We’re somewhat of a barometer of the larger market without even trying to be. Many older dealers have retired, and fewer younger experts are stepping up to take their place.” This evolution has led to heightened interest around printed editions, which are often more affordable than unique art pieces. “What’s lovely is the realization from artists of how editions allow them to reach more fans. Just like Dürer did,” she states.
The fair also prides itself on being inclusive and accessible. Rosslyn elaborates, stating, “Prints provide much greater accessibility. An artwork might be priced at £100,000 for contemporary pieces, whereas many prints are available for just hundreds of pounds.” Notably, the fair attracts first-time buyers eager to dip their toes in the art market, making prints quieter yet steady investments. “They [prints] stay more resilient even when other markets fluctuate. A print from Picasso, for example, guarantees solid value,” she explains.
Joining the ranks of established artists, newcomers like Tom Hammick and David Wrigley are working on exclusive commissions for the fair. To commemorate the milestone, Hammick has created the unique woodcut artpiece titled “Red Carpet.” It captures the essence of this year’s celebration, which brings traditional themes together with contemporary visions.
For attendees interested in building their collections, Rosslyn offers sage advice for first-timers. “The fair is perfect for meeting various dealers. Find something you genuinely love, as it’s meant to grace your wall, not merely serve as another investment. Establish relationships with dealers too, as they often know their clients well and can suggest pieces you’ll love as they become available.”
Back after its pandemic hiatus, the Hallett Independent Acquisitions Award will award regional museums £8,000 to purchase works featured at the fair. Rosslyn emphasizes support for smaller institutions whose budgets often limit acquisitions. “Local museums have valuable collections but limited budgets. We hope this initiative expands to encourage curators to travel and explore what’s available.”
Reflecting on her life devoted to print art, Rosslyn has been highlighted not just for her professional achievements—it also runs deep personally. “The appreciation for prints lies within their ability to convey art history's narrative on relatable terms,” she reflects fondly, reinforcing the transformative power of printmaking she argues resonates with collectors today.
With artistic evolution evident at the forefront of this year’s London Original Print Fair, the event signifies not only the establishment of print as an accessible art form but also underlines the need for communal support of the arts. Set against the historical and stunning backdrop of Somerset House, LOPF entices attendees October 20-23, 2025, as it intertwines the traditional with the contemporary, all whilst pledging to remain open to those new to the art world.
