This two-day workshop will introduce you to a printing process that would suit anyone wishing to experiment and develop their creative ideas. No previous experience of print should be a barrier though some dexterity with a craft knife may prove an advantage. On the Sunday I shall introduce a simple two colour mono-print process that you may wish to try also.

Saturday: Following an introductory talk you will be instructed in all aspects of cardboard cut (collagraphic) plate production, from techniques in drawing and cutting using a range of tools, some adapted or adopted specifically for this purpose, through to the application of textured materials that give this process its unique character. You will also learn about inks and papers and the machines involved in generating these exciting images.

Sunday: Further development of ideas and images through the day following a demonstration of intaglio process and the application of textured material including carborundum powder, cloth, embossed papers, tape and feathers etc. In the late afternoon if everyone is agreed we will have a little show and appraisal of the work done. A full demonstration will be given at every stage and all materials* including tools will be provided.

What you need to bring: An apron or work-shirt. General drawing material, a pencil and rubber etc. A sketchbook or notebook of ideas, even some shapes drawn on a sheet of paper will get you started.. Do bring any reference material, books, magazines, photographs, postcards etc. Do also consider bringing a small range of textured material such as cloth, embossed wallpaper, feathers, leaves etc to help personalise your prints. *(a range of textured material will be provided.)

Themes and ideas: I am happy for everyone to work through themes and ideas of their own choosing or just to begin the process and let ideas evolve from there.

Suggested reference: Work by the printmakers John & Tim Ross and Clare Romano. Also the work of Katherine Jones. You will find many artist/printmakers freely demonstrating their craft on web sites such as Pinterest and Youtube. You may find inspiration in the engraved works and themes of Paul Nash, David Jones, and the works of Barbara Hepworth, Prunella Clough, Wilhelmina Barnes-Graham, Peter Lanyon and Ben Nicholson. The shapes, forms and colour of the Russian Constructivist period. All together they form a diverse yet very strong influence….

I look forward to meeting you all on 21st June

Charles Shearer

Dates: Weekend 21/22 June
Times: 10am to 4pm
Cost: £200 / Members £190

Charles Shearer was born in Kirkwall in Orkney. He studied at Gray’s School of Art in Aberdeen and later at the Royal College of Art, London, specialising in illustration. He works teaching printmaking in numerous art schools and works on commissions for books and magazines, such as Ambit and the Cadogan Travel series. His prints are inspired from his extensive travels both here and abroad. More recently he has been in Ireland and Wales where he has been interested in the ruins, castles and follies. These influences can be seen in his recent work.