Oxford Printmakers was set up in 1976 when a group of artists, many of whom were Ruskin School of Drawing leavers, felt the need to create facilities for continuing their work as there were none in the area.

An application was made to Southern Arts for financial help, who agreed in April 1977 to a grant of £3000.

The present premises were found after a long search. They belong to the Christadelipians who agreed to lease part of them to us. The first year was rent free as so much work had to be done by the members (ceiling and floor replaced and plumbing, electrics and heating installed) and the equipment was very basic.

A formal constitution was developed in 1977 when the workshop registered with the Industrial and Provident Societies and began its co-operative status. Although minutes of early meetings were kept, they were very individualistic Minutes1 Minutes2

On the 11th February 1978 the OPC officially opened. The following September saw the first of many crazy events. The first summer print workshop was held in August/September of that year.

In 1980, an application was made to the Southern Arts Association for funding for a paid printmaking technician.

In 1988, a grant secured by Joanna Gorner led to a short term Residence by Helen Chadwick.

In 1995 an application to the National Lottery was successfully made, allowing the purchase of badly needed equipment.Through the years, the workshop has been involved in many exhibitions in the UK and overseas.