Lithography for beginners
Course Code: VS996
Duration: 2 sessions (over 2 weeks)
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What is the course about?
Introducing the original process of lithography using zinc litho plates. Beginners to the subject will will learn how to make prints using the technique made famous by Toulouse-Lautrec. Those with some experience of Lithography will be able to develop their skills and personal ideas.
What will we cover?
Lithography depends on the chemical opposition of grease and water. We will cover the main drawing materials and technical processes of lithography using stones and introduce you to its creative potential. There will also be the opportunity to learn about the similarities and differences of zinc litho plates while developing individual work.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Draw on a lithography plate using litho crayon and drawing ink
• Process and prepare a lithography stone and metal plate for printing
• Prepare paper and printing ink
• Print using a press
• Print a lithography plate in monochrome
• Have an overview of lithography as a creative medium
For more experienced learners:
• Demonstrate a variety of drawing methods
• Print a lithograph in more than one colour using a registration system.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
All levels are welcome. Some previous experience of printmaking and drawing is recommended.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
You will be taught by illustrated talks and demonstrations, individual and group instruction, group discussion and tutor guidance in practical technique.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
The course fee covers most materials including inks, chemicals, basic tools, etc. Paper for printing can be purchased at cost in the class. Please bring to the first session sketches, photographs or other visual resources.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
You may wish to pull additional prints or to continue exploring this wonderful processes, honing your skills and experiencing the vast array of possibilities lithography offers. Your tutor will be able to advise.
Additionally, you may wish to explore other lithographic processes later in the year such as Mokulito (lithography on wood) or Photolithography (VS717) or enrol on other courses with a focus on autographic work. Your tutor can advise you.
Simon teaches printmaking and drawing at City Lit, with an interest in observational and technical skills. He studied Fine Art at Exeter College of Art and lithography at the École des Beaux Arts in Paris and has been teaching printmaking, drawing and his specialism of lithography for many years at art schools, adult education colleges and independent community print workshops, including Oaks Editions Lithography Studio, his studio at Oaks Park near Carshalton. His prints have been exhibited nationally and internationally, including at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and the Bankside Gallery, London, and the International Lithography Symposium, Tidaholm, Sweden, and are in the collections of the British Library, Cambridge University Library and Aberystwyth University, amongst others. He has also contributed to 'Printmaking Today' magazine, written two chapters on landscape and abstraction in 'Drawing and Painting - Materials and Techniques for Contemporary Artists', Thames and Hudson, 2015, and translated the English edition of 'Kitchen Litho', Atelier Kitchen Print, France, 2016.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.