A weekend of exploring this experimental printmaking technique of collagraph with artist/printmaker Vicky Oldfield.

You will construct printing plates from textured, upcycled or found materials onto a support, which you will then print to create diverse, richly textured images. No previous experience is needed, just a desire to experiment with mixed media and collage.

To start with, the tutor will demonstrate different methods of making collagraph plates, working with inks and tools. You will then experiment with using mark-making textures to make plates; explore the limits of paper and ink; make samples of different techniques for making and inking plates for printing; learn how to choose papers and surfaces to print on; and how to use an etching press.

Once you have created your collagraph plate you can then incorporate a Chine-collé element. With these different surfaces and combinations, your options will become endless and provide new directions in your work. Vicky will discuss the artistic considerations required to integrate imagery to make dynamic compositions. You will experiment with the techniques and be encouraged to find personal expression in your work.

The course will finish with an informal discussion of the works created to consolidate your learning and provide feedback to take forward into your work after the course.

By the end of the weekend you will have been introduced to diverse possibilities available to make unique marks with collagraphs. You will have begun to learn you how to think in textures and layers and experimented with combining one or more impressions. You will know how to select appropriate materials and other resources for plate designs and increased knowledge of papers and other surfaces for printing and you will have experienced using an etching press.

This course is suitable for beginners and refreshers alike and all basic materials are included in the course price.

Dates: Weekend 1/2 August
Times: 10am to 4pm
Cost: £220 / Members £210

Vicky Oldfield is best known for her work as a printmaker and is well represented by galleries across the UK. She has exhibited at the Royal Academy Summer exhibition, The Mall Galleries and in Tokyo, Japan and published in The Printmakers Bible and Practical Printmaking.

Vicky’s strong images are created using collagraphs, an experimental form of printmaking.  The prints are taken from plates which have been collaged with a variety of materials, card, fabric, paper, string, sand and anything else that may come to hand; it’s recycling at its most creative!

Vicky studied (BA Hons) Design at Staffordshire University and then advanced printmaking at Richmond School of Art tutored by master printmaker Melvyn Petterson. She has worked as a freelance designer/illustrator in recent years, and before freelancing she worked as a studio designer for Triodes International in Paris and Crown Wallcoverings in London.

Vicky published her book on printmaking Mixed-Media Collagraph Prints: Creative Techniques in 2022