There is no replacement to seeing works of art in situ, prints in particular.

The course will start with a scheduled visit to the print department at the British Museum, London, a few steps away from the College at Dilke House. A collection of prints through the ages will offer a comprehensive history of monotype. You will have the chance to see and discuss the works; your tutor will explain the techniques and the development of monotypes. Back in the studio the different artist’ techniques and methods will be demonstrated one-by-one. You will have the chance to try all different techniques and then develop your own ways of producing monotypes. The course will explore the realisation of monochrome and coloured prints. Techniques such as direct drawing, subtractive and additive techniques will be explained and shown. You will learn how to ink a plate, apply your design and print safely use an etching press. The draftsman and the painter in you will be teased. Over printing, application of textures and use of layers with transparent inks will be studied. Two etching presses, water-based inks and a selection of papers will be available over the three days.

It is anticipated that the selection of monotypes seen in the British Museum will help you develop a better understanding and possibilities of the techniques you might explore yourself in the studio. During the course your tutor will encourage a sense of experimentation and risk taking. Peer sharing and group discussions will be encouraged throughout the duration of the course.

You will leave the course with fine printing skills with an excellent ability to play with the viscosity of ink. You will acquire a very good understanding of what a monotype print can be. You will have produced several series of unique prints.

Included

On this course the College will supply most materials including plates, water-based ink and a selection of paper.

What students need to bring

• Drawing material including hard and soft pencils 2H and 4B
• Small sketchbook and pencil to make notes in the museum
• Sketchbook with ideas for print designs
• Brushes that can be used for ink (not your best), such as acrylic brushes of different widths: small, medium and large
• Your own printing paper you might want to sample
• A selection of thin things to create textures such as dried leaves or flowers, lace, dollies, sand paper, textured wall paper. You might also bring along tools to create marks such as old combs, wooden forks, old credit cards, small pieces of card etc.
• A small water colour set or and water-based pencils
• A small selection of soft pastels.
• A scalpel
• Masking tape
• An apron

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Student registration: 10.30am - 11am
Course teaching: 11am – 5.15pm 
Morning session: 11am - 1pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes: 5.15pm  
 

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions