Printmaking weekend: monoprinting workshop

What is the course about?

The monoprint is a ‘one off’ print similar to a painting however the marks and textures achieved from printing layers of ink can produce rich visual effects as they layer and blend. In this course we will be learning about the main techniques for making monoprints using an etching press and by hand. Having tried your hand at each method you can go on to experiment with adding and subtracting ink, to build your own unique monoprints. You will learn correct ways to use the inks and rollers, the press and the papers etc and about ways to build layers to enrich your images.

What will we cover?

Initially learning how to create prints using direct draw, subtractive and additive monoprinting, you will have the opportunity to investigate these techniques and different approaches to printing a 'one-off' image using an etching press. You will be able to bring your own source material to work from and to develop a composition or series of images to produce prints as ends themselves or to use to generate ideas for other work.

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

• make a print using subtractive monoprinting method
• make a print using additive monoprinting method
• produce prints using a press
• demonstrate good workshop practice using the print studio and equipment.

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

The course is suitable for all levels including artists who are looking for ways to incorporate printmaking into their work. You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions to support demonstrations, hand-outs and for health and safety information. It’s always useful to take short written notes for your own use.

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

Demonstrations, practical assignments, one to one and group discussion. You may want to do some preparatory work outside the class depending on your own individual project.

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

The course fee covers all basic materials such as inks and paper. It is helpful (but not essential) to bring rags for cleaning or newspapers. It is useful to bring sketches, photographs or other visual resources as a starting point to the first session.

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

There are a number of related printmaking courses available at City Lit, and you could go on to study the subject in more depth on full or part-time courses. Your tutor will discuss courses that maybe appropriate for you at the end of the course.