About

Cleveland Print Room advances the art and appreciation of the photographic image in all its forms, by providing affordable access to a community darkroom, gallery exhibitions, educational programs and collaborative outreach.

In 2005, we noticed a troubling trend. Many high schools, arts centers and universities/colleges were actively downsizing and decommissioning their darkroom facilities.

It was during this time period that Polaroid ceased making their groundbreaking film, and the exceptionally stunning Kodachrome film was discontinued. When local arts centers began selling off their photography equipment and darkroom supplies, we began buying this equipment up and placing it in storage. At that time, we were not really sure why we were doing this.

Enter 2012. Earlier that year, our founder, Shari Wilkins, had a meeting with Liz Maugans, one of the Founders of Cleveland’s Zygote Press, about her found photo business and she mentioned that they were looking for someone in Cleveland to take their darkroom. She planted a seed that has grown into what is now the Cleveland Print Room.

After researching the gap in services and the need in the Northeast Ohio area, along with recognizing the resurgence in 20th-century emulsion-based photography it was an easy decision. 

We searched for a large space, in a location conveniently accessible for eastsiders, westsiders, Cleveland State University students and University Circle. We also wanted to be close by Zygote Press, so working together in the future would be easy. We chose the ArtCraft Building in the Superior arts district where we are ground level and have our own separate entrance, one of the most appealing aspects of the space as it gives the Cleveland Print Room renters easy access.

At Cleveland Print Room, we envision a photography cooperative in which photographers work together in our community darkroom and communal workspace. Cleveland Print Room strengthens the community by elevating the art and appreciation of photography.

Funders

The Cleveland Print Room is a nonprofit community darkroom, education center, workspace, and photographic gallery. Through advocacy we advance the art and appreciation of the photographic image by providing affordable access to our darkroom workspace, exhibitions, educational programming, and collaborative community outreach, where we work with artists- locally, nationally, and internationally. 

None of this would be possible without our funders and sponsors. Thank you for your continued support.