Printmaking has provided the historical frame through which all artistic media are referenced and disseminated, in addition to being a distinctive art form in its own right. The UNM Printmaking Area offers instructions in various print mediums – including Intaglio, Lithography, Monotype, Relief, Serigraphy, and Digital Processes. Besides traditional Printmaking, students are also challenging the medium's role in the larger context of contemporary art through interdisciplinary concerns and innovation. Unique to UNM is the Collaborative Lithography course taught in partnership with the world-renowned Tamarind Institute of Lithography. During this course, printer trainees at Tamarind collaborate with UNM students to print multiple lithographic editions. In addition, the Printmaking Area has offered annual community outreach projects and has collaborated with many different groups, including public schools and non-profit, social welfare organizations, both nationally and internationally. There is a large group of printmakers in the Southwest and UNM Printmaking serves an important leadership role to this community.