Spike Print Studio

Spike Print Studio has organised a series of one day workshops specifically for teachers, starting in October 2008.

Introduction

These new InSET workshops have been specifically designed by experienced artist-printmakers who are also KS3 and FE teachers, and understand the needs of this sector. So, what we offer can be translated directly back into the classroom, in a direct, knowledgeable and enjoyable way, working both with and without a press. All the materials used can be bought cheaply and in bulk.

All attending the workshop will receive a pack of detailed technical notes, visual examples, useful contacts and links that will be of immediate practical benefit in the classroom. Everyone will also receive a certificate confirming that they have successfully completed the workshop.

At the end of each day you will have:

• Learned the basic skills and techniques of the specific print process.
• Developed new ideas and more confidence to deliver printmaking as part of the Art & Design curriculum.
• Access to a resource pack/handouts to help you back in the classroom

Dates of Workshops:
Wed 29 October Workshop One COLLAGRAPH
Wed 5 November Workshop Two DRYPOINT
Sat 8 November Workshop Three MONOPRINT

Dates in February tbc

Cost

There are three one-day workshops on offer. You can choose to attend them as single events or see them as a course. The cost is £ 95 for each day, or £ 285 for three days - we offer a saving of £ 30 if you book all three together - a total of £ 255. This includes materials, tutor fees, handouts and refreshments (tea, coffee, biscuits).

Workshop One

COLLAGRAPH
Collagraph is a cheap method of creating prints without using metal plates or chemicals. Instead, the plate is constructed from recyclable materials such as papers, foil and card, which is then inked and printed with or without a press. Collagraph is an expressive process that is ideal for experimenting with mark making as it can produce rich, colourful, textural and painterly effects.

The workshop will focus on the construction of plates, the materials that can be used and the experimental ways in which the plates can be printed to develop visual outcomes.
Suitable for all levels. Can be used with or without a press.

Workshop Two

DRYPOINT
Drypoint is a form of etching that can be used without acid. Instead it involves drawing or scoring a design onto a plate, which is then inked and printed on an etching press. Drypoint is a direct process that can achieve a rich and varied range of drawn marks using different tools and surfaces. In its most basic form a biro can be used on card to create a design.

The workshop will focus on the use of card, plastic and metal plates and will explore ways of making marks through different tools. It will also include full demonstrations on how to ink plates and print them on an etching press.
Suitable for all levels. Requires access to a press.

Workshop Three

MONOPRINT
Monoprinting is a cheap and direct method used for making ‘one-off’ prints. In its simplest form ink is thinly applied to a flat surface. An image can be taken from this surface through a press or can be created by drawing through paper on top of this surface. It is an excellent process for exploring images though colour and mark making, and can even be printed over other images. Great results can be achieved without specialist equipment or space.

This is an experimental workshop that will introduce you to 3 techniques, additive, subtractive and offset. Focus will be on the creative possibilities of printing on other surfaces (such as photocopies), applying inks (painting & drawing), using stencils, collage, colour, and transferring patterns and textures (such as lace).
Suitable for all levels. Can be used with or without a press.

A breakdown of the day’s activities - 9.30am - 4.00pm

Introduction to printmaking

A brief introduction to printmaking. This will include the history of the process, an overview of key practitioners and their work, and its contemporary context in the art world.
There will also be a brief introduction into how Spike Print Studio works and relevant examples will be shown of members work.

Introduction to the day’s events

This will include an introduction to the process. In particular participants will be introduced to the materials and tools that will be used and any Health and Safety issues. Handouts will be given that cover all the technical information about the process, a step-by-step guide, visual examples, links to other artists, materials required and useful contacts for further research.

Demonstration

There will be a full demonstration by the workshop leader from creating plates through to printing. Visual examples will be available.

Practical activity

Participants get to use the process. They will have the opportunity to make their own plates and experiment with printing techniques.
Participants may like to bring source materials such as drawings or photographs with them.

Lunch break

45 mins long. Spike Canteen, based downstairs, offers a small but good range of hot and cold food. There is also a local shop nearby.

Practical activity

Participants will be encouraged to experiment with the process further with the aim of completing a variety of examples that can be used in the classroom.

Reflection

The results will be looked at as a group by the workshop leader, and any further issues discussed.

Evaluation

Participants can reflect on what worked best for them and anything they would like to have changed. Also a chance for any final questions.

Where we are:

All of the workshops take place in the light and well equipped rooms at Spike Print Studio based at renowned contemporary art space, Spike Island.

Spike Print Studio, Spike Island, 133 Cumberland Road, Bristol, BS1 6UX
Spike Print Studio is located within the Spike Island Artspace building on Bristol’s South Harbourside.
From the city centre, it’s about a 15 min walk - follow signs to SS Great Britain.

For further information or to book a place, please contact Gill Nicol on 0117 9290135 or email gill@spikeprintstudio.org