Thursday Evening: Explorations in Printmaking

About this course

The course introduces beginners to etching processes including hard ground, soft ground and aquatint, alongside intaglio printing. Learners make plates and blocks, experiment with different printing methods and develop projects using varied media. Returning and advanced participants can work on individual projects while receiving technical and critical advice suited to their needs. Teaching combines demonstrations, presentations, group discussions, critiques and one-to-one guidance. Learners also record and assess their progress through a Learning Statement, with discussions addressing techniques, artists’ work and their own and peers’ work.

What you'll learn

• Create plates and blocks for printmaking
• Apply hard ground, soft ground, aquatint and intaglio techniques
• Develop personal projects using different printmaking media
• Operate printmaking equipment and workshop facilities safely
• Evaluate printmaking work through critique and critical discussion

Is this course right for you?

The course is suitable for beginners, returning learners and more advanced participants. No previous printmaking experience is required, although an interest in or experience of drawing or design is useful. Beginners receive introductions to techniques, while returning learners can renew their knowledge or develop a specific project. Participation includes group critiques and discussions as well as individual work.

Before you go

• Learners should bring pencils, a small paintbrush, a sketchbook or notebook, an apron, rubber gloves for cleaning, thin nitrile or latex gloves for inking, and their own printmaking and drawing tools.
• Most studio consumables, including ink, cleaning materials and solvents, are included. Paper, etching plates and lino blocks must be purchased separately from the department at cost price.
• Health and safety procedures are explained during the course, and learners must sign an agreement to follow them. Some chemicals may be harmful during pregnancy or irritating for people with sensitivities; learners should inform the tutor so precautions can be advised.
• The print studio is not wheelchair accessible and is on the second and third floors. Learners with mobility issues should contact the department before enrolling.