Comprehensive Monotype Printmaking with Caroline Wendling

Ref: D3D42364

Places available

About this course

\u8203?\u8203?A comprehensive monotype printmaking course inspired by prints by Castiglioni, Paul Klee, Edgar Degas, Thér\'e8se Oulton, Mira Schendel and others specially requested and viewed during your planned visit to the British Museum. The techniques they used will be discussed, demonstrated and trialled in the studio. \u8203?

Course Description

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. 

Course Materials

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

Available to buy

A good variety of art and craft materials are available to buy in the Gardens Gatehouse Shop.

Additional information

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

Timetable

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  
 

General Information

Tutors

Caroline Wendling Tutor at West Dean College of Arts and Conservation

Caroline Wendling

Core Team Tutor - Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
Short Course Tutor

Caroline Wendling's work explores ideas of place and belonging through layered projects that draw on history and explore local myths, inviting re-imagings of sites. She takes her audience on a physical, sensory and emotional journey leaving them with a poetic encounter and a story to tell.

Courses of interest

Exploring cyanotype creatively on paper and fabric

Online
Buy course
Tutor: Zoe Burt |
Suitable for all
£47

Hybrid relief printmaking at home

Online
Buy course
Tutor: Mary Dalton |
Suitable for all
£47

Relief printing at home

Online
Buy course
Tutor: Mary Dalton |
Suitable for all
£47

Experimental reduction linocut

27 Sep 2026 to 1 Oct 2026 | West Dean
Places available
Tutor: Robin Mackenzie |
Suitable for all
£785
Further study options for art craft and design short courses

Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.