Contemporary printmaking studio: focus on courage to play

What is the course about?

Learn or develop a range of printmaking techniques through practical experience and experimentation. Gain experience in using the printmaking studio and associated tools and materials safely and effectively. You will be able to develop your images from personal sources and projects and discover how printmaking can have a transformative effect on your initial sketches, designs or ideas.

What will we cover?

If you are new to printmaking, you will learn a range of techniques such as lino printing, drypoint, collograph and etching by taking a step by step approach to methods and an experimental approach to image making.
Intermediate and advanced learners will be able to work to self-directed projects with expert guidance and will be encouraged to build on previous experience, as well as continuing with experimentation and image development. Advanced techniques such as photo etching and multi-plate printing will be introduced to learners with previous experience.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

For beginners:
- etch on metal using a variety of processes
- prepare and use lino and card as printing blocks for relief and intaglio
- prepare paper for printing
- print blocks and plates to good standards in monochrome and colour.

For intermediate and advanced learners:
- explore personal imagery through various printmaking processes
- engage in advanced technical processes
- develop the content of your work further.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is suitable for all levels of ability.

You should be able to follow verbal and written instructions in English for both health and safety purposes and to enable you to follow printmaking procedures. You should be able to take short written notes for your own use and occasionally make simple measurements using a ruler. Basic drawing skills would be an advantage.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Demonstrations and personal application of different aspects of the media will be offered as you advance in
knowledge and competence. Beginners will make test plates of all the procedures as a prelude to developing
their own ideas and imagery.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

The course fee covers basic materials such as inks, a standard quality paper and general communal workshop sundries. A limited amount of zinc etching plate can be purchased at cost in the class. Please bring sketches, photographs or other visual resources as a starting point to the first session.
Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencil to printing services, at 15% off.

To get 15% LGC discount, students will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment of them being a student at City Lit. You can apply in-store or by simply emailing info@londongraphics.co.uk with a scan or photo of relevant confirmation. The student discount does not apply to products that are already discounted or on offer. More information can be found here- https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/student-discounts/.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

The Printmaking studio: all levels courses run each term, so you may wish to repeat this multi- level course several times in order to develop your practice or perhaps focus on one technique or process. We offer an advanced one year printmaking course (VS986) that learners may wish to apply for after building a portfolio in this course. Alternatively, we offer a screen printing and other specialist short courses.