Venetian Screen Printing with Gianpaolo
Explore the iterative art of screen printing with master printer and second-generation artisan Gianpaolo in Venice, one of Italy’s craft capitals. Learn hands-on techniques passed down over 50 years—from preparing screens to mixing inks and hand-printing each color layer—as you bring your designs to life. Outside the studio, immerse in Venice’s cultural scene, exploring exhibitions and galleries both old and new.
- Snacks, Coffee, & Tea
Pricing
- One Guest
- USD $1955
- Additional guest(s) (max 4)
- USD $540
Meet the Artist
Gianpaolo is a master silkscreen printer and second-generation steward of a historic Venetian atelier founded by his father, Fiorenzo Fallani, in 1968. After years of apprenticing alongside his father, who collaborated with over 200 international artists and produced more than 1,000 editions, Gianpaolo took the helm, bringing a refined, contemporary sensibility to the craft. Today, he continues to expand the legacy through collaborations with artists, photographers, and even Nobel Prize winner Dario Fo, keeping the spirit of Venetian printmaking alive.
Gianpaolo works entirely with traditional screen printing techniques, using simple artisanal tools: paper, mesh screens, squeegees, and hand-mixed water-based inks. Each color layer requires a separate screen, carefully prepared and printed by hand. He still prints on the original bed built over 50 years ago, maintaining a physical and philosophical link to the studio’s origins. This fully manual process gives his prints rich texture and depth, qualities often lost in digital reproduction.
For Gianpaolo, printing is not just a craft but a form of dialogue between artist, printer, and the unpredictable magic of ink on paper. Deeply committed to both preservation and innovation, he views himself not only as a skilled artisan but also as a cultural custodian, ensuring that this centuries-old tradition remains alive, relevant, and profoundly human.
Gianpaolo works entirely with traditional screen printing techniques, using simple artisanal tools: paper, mesh screens, squeegees, and hand-mixed water-based inks. Each color layer requires a separate screen, carefully prepared and printed by hand. He still prints on the original bed built over 50 years ago, maintaining a physical and philosophical link to the studio’s origins. This fully manual process gives his prints rich texture and depth, qualities often lost in digital reproduction.
For Gianpaolo, printing is not just a craft but a form of dialogue between artist, printer, and the unpredictable magic of ink on paper. Deeply committed to both preservation and innovation, he views himself not only as a skilled artisan but also as a cultural custodian, ensuring that this centuries-old tradition remains alive, relevant, and profoundly human.
VAWAA Includes:
- Introduction to screen printing techniques and processes.
- Design a print and learn how to create color separations and prepare films.
- Learn to create screens by exposing them to UV light, developing, and drying.
- Mix inks and build your image by hand-printing each color layer, finishing with embossing the seal of authenticity.
- Visit local museums and exhibitions, and sample authentic local food.
- A tour of the islands in the lagoon making up Venice, if time permits.
Explore Venice
Venice is a city like no other—a captivating maze of canals, narrow alleys, and historic architecture seemingly frozen in time. Built on over 100 small islands linked by more than 400 bridges, its waterways replace streets and cars, creating an intimate, pedestrian-friendly setting. The city features iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge, alongside hidden gems in its quiet sestieri (districts). Venice also boasts a rich tradition of artisanal crafts—Murano glassmaking, Burano lace, and centuries-old printing techniques. Annual events like the Venice Biennale and Carnival of Masks showcase its vibrant culture. Whether you come for the craftsmanship, cuisine, or architecture, Venice offers an unforgettable experience.
Additional Details
The best time to visit Venice is between April and October, when temperatures are mild and pleasant. Winter (November to March) tends to be colder, and the studio does not have heating, so it may be less comfortable during this season.
This VAWAA is not available for longer durations.
Adults 18 years and older are welcome to participate. Though the studio is wheelchair accessible, standing and the use of both arms and hands are required for the printing process. If this is a barrier, Gianpaolo can help you print with one hand or can manage the printing process for you.
Gianpaolo speaks Italian and basic English.
This VAWAA is not available for longer durations.
Adults 18 years and older are welcome to participate. Though the studio is wheelchair accessible, standing and the use of both arms and hands are required for the printing process. If this is a barrier, Gianpaolo can help you print with one hand or can manage the printing process for you.
Gianpaolo speaks Italian and basic English.