Epson supports the future artists of Australia

Epson and the College of Fine Arts (COFA) at the University of New South Wales have signed a sponsorship agreement aimed at supporting the development of fine art print making, photography and graphic design through COFA's regular activities.

Epson's Professional Graphics Business Unit Manager, Craig Heckenberg, (pictured with Professor Ian Howard, Dean of COFA) ,said Epson has formed a close working relationship with COFA and its students.

"As the leader in print making for fine art, photography and graphic design, Epson has a natural alliance with COFA, which is one of Australia's premiere fine arts schools," Mr Heckenberg said.

"By providing COFA with the latest in Epson's imaging technologies, Epson is helping students to gain valuable exposure to printers, scanners, inks and paper that the majority of people in the industry are using, preparing them for life after COFA."

The print room at COFA has half a dozen Epson engines, mostly wide format printers such as the StylusPro 9800 along with a number of scanners. The students use the equipment not only in their course work but also in preparing their exhibitions.

Epson pioneered the use of digital printing in fine art, which according to Craig Heckenberg, is one of three high specification areas where the company’s products thrive. “Fine art, proofing and photography are where users want stable, consistent and accurate colour. They are not high volume areas and usually time is not a priority. People simply want the best result,” he said.

Professor Ian Howard, Dean of COFA, said he welcomed Epson's support for Australia's future artists, photographers and designers.

"This initiative by Epson helps ensure our students are up to date with the latest technologies in their field and that they meet the needs of the industry," Professor Howard said.