Jacob Semko’s Curriculum Vitae
Summary
Jacob L. Semko is a Saskatchewan-based artist, educator, and innovator in contemporary printmaking. His work bridges fine art and craft through the integration of CNC technology, non-toxic processes, and open-source education. As co-founder of YXE Backyard Studios, he has contributed to the advancement of printmaking accessibility and mentorship in Canada. His practice exemplifies the Canadian values of resourcefulness, collaboration, and generosity, which underpin his national and international influence.
Arts and cultural training and learning
2005 Master of Fine Arts (Printmaking), University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
2003 Bachelor of Fine Arts (Printmaking), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
Teaching and Professional Experience
2025 Research Associate, School for the Arts, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK
2005 - Present Sessional Lecturer, Department of Art & Art History, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK
2019 – Present Preparator, University of Saskatchewan Collection and Galleries (CAG & KAG), Saskatoon, SK
2019–2021 Preparator, Remai Modern, Saskatoon, SK
2018–2019 Senior Mentor, CARFAC Saskatchewan Mentorship Program, Saskatoon, SK
2014–2015 Artist in Residence / Creative Lead, Kenderdine Campus, Emma Lake, SK
2008–2009 International Artist Residency, Seacourt Printmaking Workshop, Bangor, Northern Ireland
2008–2009 Visiting Artist / Lecturer, Ulster University, Belfast, Northern Ireland
2008–2009 Instructor of Record, South Eastern Regional College, Bangor, Northern Ireland
2006–2008 Adjunct Instructor, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON
2006 Instructor of Record, Fleming College, Haliburton, ON
2006 Sessional Lecturer, St. Peter’s College, Muenster, SK
Honours and Awards
2025 – SK Arts Independent Artist Grant
2025 – Dimensions Juried Finalist – Best in Print, 50th Anniversary Exhibition
2024 – Academic Professional Development Grant, University of Saskatchewan
2023 – Academic Professional Development Grant, University of Saskatchewan
2023 – Excellence in Teaching Award Nomination, University of Saskatchewan
2022 – Academic Professional Development Grant, University of Saskatchewan
2022 – Excellence in Teaching Award Nomination, University of Saskatchewan
2018 – Excellence in Teaching Award Nomination, University of Saskatchewan
2015 – Excellence in Teaching Award, University of Saskatchewan
2008 – Queen’s University Adjunct Research Grant
2006 – Lieutenant Governor’s Award Finalist – Contribution to the Arts in Saskatchewan
Conferences and Collaborations
Selected highlights include presentations at Flatgrafika, Southern Graphics International Conference, and the Saskatchewan Craft Council. Notable collaborations include Joy Sandwich (with Stuart Semple), and Mural with Grant McConnell & Ecole Victoria students, Saskatoon, SK.
Selected Exhibitions and Screenings
2026 Unseen 2026 Printmaking Work by YXE Backyard Studios, Francis Morrison Publish Library, Saskatoon, SK.
2025 The Roadside Series: A Saskatchewan Printmaking Story (Solo), Saskatchewan Craft Council, Saskatoon, SK
2025 Dimensions: Final Exhibitionist, Saskatchewan Craft Council, Saskatoon, SK
2024 The Great Conjunction, Gordon Snelgrove Gallery, University of Saskatchewan
2023 Everybody’s Working for the Weekend, Gordon Snelgrove Gallery, University of Saskatchewan
2023 Takey Takey Claw Machine, Nuit Blanche, Saskatoon, SK
2023 Joy Sandwich (Collaboration with Stuart Semple), International Locations
2018 In Process (Solo), Musée Ukraina Museum, Saskatoon, SK
2016 Grand River: 3rd International Printmaking Exhibition, Hubei Institute of Fine Arts Museum, Wuhan, China
Published Works
2025 Waterless Lithography: A Student Technical Manual (Semko, Ly & Bath), SaskOER, University of Saskatchewan
2009 Anodyne: Safer Printmaking in a New Century, Arts Council of Northern Ireland
2007 Galleries West: Previews and Profiles
2005 Waterless Lithography: An Artist’s Guide to Professional Quality Prints, Outskirts Press, Denver, CO
Affiliations and Community Service
Co-Founder, YXE Backyard Studios, Saskatoon, SK
Board Member, Redberry Lake Biosphere Region
Mentor, CARFAC Saskatchewan Mentorship Program
Member, Saskatchewan Craft Council, CARFAC National, Southern Graphics Council International