Printmaking

Printmaking covers a range of materials and methods. The primary ones represented at the school are dry point, linoleum, silkscreen, mono prints, multi medium and wood cut which are run through a press except for silkscreen. Etching can also be explored but requires a special set up. The primary goal in printmaking is to print a subject or concept using a printing method, tool and machine. Often the goal is to produce multiples prints exactly. Even though this is what most printers try to do it is possible to print unique mono prints too. The materials and the techniques used to create a plate or image becomes part of the objective and lesson to be explored. Woodcut, Linoleum and dry-point are the easiest depending on your taste and quality you want.

The question however is which printmaking technique to learn first? Learning the basics is important and can be done by choosing any one of the many kinds of printing methods available. A project is selected and a subject can be as simple as a landscape containing trees, ground and sky. This project however represents the ability to learn how to manipulate the materials in order to produce the desired print. The project can also represent lights and darks, textures, shapes, form, shadows, movement, subtleties in rendering three-dimensional objects and the overall feeling or emotional quality of the print.

Each project is made up of elements that you can identify with. This process is a matter of picking subjects that are part of common formats like landscapes, portraits, still-life, abstract compositions and master artist or art movement compositions. Once a subject or format is chosen the student and the instructor develops the project, which will reflect learning new methods and ways to create a good print. These projects also can take the person into other mediums and other interests which is encouraged once these projects are close to completion. The intention is to broaden the person's horizons by engaging them in a variety of subjects and techniques that are connected to your interests.

The program is flexible and allows a person to explore mediums and subjects without changing administratively in anyway.  It is a matter of going on to the next projects. The instructor gives demonstrations regularly and provides guidance throughout the project. You can attend a specific class where everyone is learning the same thing or you can be part of the impendent study program. The choice is up to you.