Our Mission

We make art and empower creatives through studio access, workshops and exhibitions.

Our Story

Platetone was founded in 2004 as a community printmaking studio offering membership to fine art printmakers. Since then, we have grown to incorporate Book and Paper Arts and  gained our 501c3 nonprofit status.

We offer 24/7 access to studio space and equipment including presses for etching, plate lithography, and letterpress, as well as a silk-screen area and equipment for bookwork and papermaking. We also teach workshops, provide exhibition opportunities and host a free educational Open Studio every First Saturday.

We are professionals, teachers, amateurs, and students.

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Our Programs

STUDIO MEMBERSHIP

Members have 24/7 access to the studio. We have facilities for etching, relief, plate lithography, photo-plate etching, screen printing, bookwork, and papermaking. Communal Studio Members and Private Studio Members have access to all printmaking equipment and a community of fellow artists and craftspeople. Members also have opportunities to show their work in Platetone Group Exhibits. For more information visit the Use the Studio page.

CLASSES

Our workshops are affordable and welcoming to learners of all levels. Topics range from reduction relief printing to handmade book structures, screenprinting to experimental collograph printing.  Our instructors are established artists who bring their knowledge, expertise, and innovative approaches to the classroom. For more information visit the classes page.

OPEN STUDIO

A highlight of every month, Platetone's Open Studios have run regularly for over 7 years! First Saturday Open Studio nights feature a new art exhibit featuring one of our members in the Patricia Jordan Memorial Gallery and a hands-on activity or demo for the public to enjoy. For exhibit information, see our Open Studio page or visit our Facebook page.

COMMUNITY STUDIO NIGHTS

Join us for select Thursday Evenings (excluding holidays) from 6-8pm for Community Nights. Community Nights are a time for Platetone Members and Artists in the community make work in our shared space and learn from each another. Some nights feature demos, special events, or host community meetups. Check our Thursday Community Studio Nights page for more info!

INTERNSHIPS

Our interns learn critical hands-on experience and resume-building skills by assisting in all areas of Platetone's operations. Past interns have come from Austin Peay, Watkins, and other community partners. Our internships develop artistic and administrative skills in the next generation of Nashville artists. Visit the internships page for more information.

PATRICIA JORDAN MEMORIAL GALLERY

Named in honor of one of our long term member, board member and supporter, our gallery features monthly exhibits of our member's best work.