Article Date: 23 November 2015
Article Date: 23 November 2015
Art students from Braintree Sixth Form recently went on a daytrip to 'The Curwen Print Study Centre’ in Cambridge to take part in a print making workshop.
In preparation for this day we created lino blocks based on our recent work on natural forms. Lino cutters were used to remove sections of the lino, creating the shape of our chosen design. At the study centre we covered the lino in ink using rollers to ensure an even spread. With the use of specialist printing presses, pressure was applied to the lino block which allowed the design to be evenly transferred on to the paper. After creating some initial prints and becoming more confident with using the equipment, we were encouraged to experiment with colour, composition and background colour. This enabled us to become more expressive with our designs. We thoroughly enjoyed this experimentation stage, as we were able to create prints that initially didn’t seem as if they would work but the end result was very successful.
The second print making technique that we learnt was dry point, this is a process in which the design is scratched into acetate using a fine, sharp point. Oil-based ink is then rubbed using circular motions into the indents and then wiped off, this is then repeated three times to ensure the ink entirely fills the indents. Acetate is then laid on to damp paper and then rolled over with a large metal cylinder, which we turned by hand. The prints created were very different to the lino prints, as the colour choice was more limited, however we were able to include intricate details whereas the lino cutters could only create more solid lines.
The day was a brilliant experience for all students involved as we were able to use professional print-making equipment and create a variety of prints that we could continue to develop after the workshop. We did this by altering the colours and size of the prints as well as using acetate to layer the images creating holographic effects.
By Sophie Kulik
Year 13 Art Student
“A unique experience where we got the chance to meet experts in printing”
Victoria Forconesi
“A very enjoyable experience which allowed us to learn new techniques”
Alisha Wright.
