Why is the art of printmaking so popular today when previosly prints were primarily used for book illustration

Answer 1

There are more, and more accessible, ways of printmaking now, and papers to do it with. Japanese prints into Europe at the end of the 19thC established prints as a "respectable" and collectable art form, distinct from mere reproductions (which were anyway more limited by available techniques then). The emergence of the middle class created a market of people who wanted wall decorations not limited to "holy" pictures. In modern times, artists (and galleries) find the sales of a multiple work, at consequently reduced item prices, both easier and more profitable than trying to sell unique originals, which must command higher prices on fewer sales, so artist and gallery can eat! So the market is cultivated, and effectively feeds on itself.

Answer 2

not only is it a different medium for the Artist to explore. But the image can be made in multiples and sold accordingly. Since (most)prints are not unique the price is generally more reasonable for most buyers.

Answer 3

artists would always wanna try different mediums.