Above all things, the verso imprint functions as a sensitive instrument; part listening practice, interpreting and translating the ideas of artists into print, and part a gesture of ongoing inquiry, into forms of publishing, collaborative experimentation and technical knowledge in the realisation of print projects. These include durational print projects, research (the tacit kind) through the print medium, a residency programme, concentrated production, and the making of publications in partnership with bookbinders and friends in print publishing.
The studio values experimentation through traditional processes. The scope of techniques on offer include but are not limited to, intaglio (etching, drypoint and photopolymer gravure), relief work (lino and woodcut), collograph, chine collé, and once-off impressions in oil and watercolour monotype. As a conscious effort towards the importance of material properties, edition ~ verso together with PULP Paperworks collaborate in the making of handmade paper from their respective studio waste. This endeavour allows for artists to include a facilitated paper making practice alongside the making of prints in the studio.
edition ~ verso collaborations continue over the course of many years, offering artists the opportunity to build up a comprehensive body of printed work at their own pace, exploring the various aspects of the print medium in close/far relation to their existing practice.
These lead to deep-rooted working relationships, the fostering of a studio community, and are the foundation of edition ~ verso.
Michaela Verity (b. 1986) is a multidisciplinary creative professional with a passion for visual storytelling and craftsmanship. As a Senior Creative at MediaVision (UK) and a seasoned freelance graphic designer, she brings years of expertise in branding, digital design, and visual communication. Her skills extend into photography, illustration, and crafting, allowing her to approach projects with a well-rounded artistic perspective. Beyond digital design, Michaela plays an integral role at edition ~ verso, contributing to studio operations, product development, papermaking, and technical support. Whether refining designs, crafting handmade paper, or stepping in as the ever-essential “clean hands,” her versatility and attention to detail are invaluable to the studio’s creative process. To get in touch with Michaela, send us an email, and we’ll gladly pass it along.
Courteney Bentley (b. 2002) is a multidisciplinary artist with a strong focus on ceramics, drawing and photography, who recently graduated with a BAFA from Wits University. She is a current intern at edition ~ verso where she is developing her printmaking and papermaking interests. Courteney is an avid learner, and enjoys a good book.
Sara-Aimee Verity (b. 1981) founder of edition ~ verso is a master printer, apprenticed to Zhané Warren. Her practice is working with artists, attempting to translate their ideas and thoughts onto paper with the companionship of the printing press. Having worked in print for over twenty years, she has editioned for a long list of South African and international artists (see below ☟). After working at Warren Editions (Cape Town), she went on to work at Fundacion Acè (Buenos Aires), headed up the professional workshop at the Artist’s Proof Studio (Joburg) and has worked as a sessional print lecturer at the Univeristy of the Witwatersrand since 2015.
As a publisher, she always wants to do more, slowly.
(Some of these artists include; William Kentridge, Kagiso Pat Mautloa, Georgina Gratrix, Handspring Puppet Company, Colbert Mashile, Doris Bloom, Hentie Van Der Merwe, Mongezi Ncaphayi, Clive Van Den Berg, Paul Emmanuel, Norman Catherine, Brett Murray, Sanell Aggenbach, Lebohang Motaung, Bianca Baldi and Bridget Baker, Michael Taylor, Ina Van Zyl, Sober and Lonely Institute, Ziyanda Majozi, Faith47, and Nomthunzi Mashalaba...)
edition ~ verso hosts an active internship programme that supports many of the studio’s activities.
Interns are trained in various capacities reflecting not only those within the scope of print and paper making but, extend to professional practice within the broader arts sector. For more information on the internship programme and/or for application enquiries, please follow this link.