Printmaking from Scratch

Multiple Workshops Available (See Above)

Class Times:  10:00am - 2:00pm

With Tutor: Jo Constable

A Three-Part Creative Journey

Printmaking is full of surprises. Every plate, every layer of ink and every turn through the press reveals something new.

Join experienced printmaker Jo Constable for a series of three hands-on workshops, each exploring a different printmaking process and creative approach. Discover the bold simplicity of lino printing, the textured possibilities of experimental collagraphy and the fine detail of drypoint etching.

Each workshop is a complete creative experience, so you can choose the technique that interests you most. Or, for a richer introduction to printmaking, join all three workshops and experience the breadth of both relief and intaglio printmaking methods.
Throughout the series you'll learn how printmakers think "in reverse" by creating mirror-image printing plates, explore the unique characteristics of different inks and papers, and discover how colour, texture and process influence the final print. Bring along sketches or ideas for an artwork and Jo will help you adapt your design into a successful printmaking project. By the end of each workshop you'll leave with your own hand-printed artwork and the confidence to continue experimenting.

Whether you're completely new to printmaking or looking to try a new process, these workshops offer the opportunity to develop practical skills while discovering the joy of creating original prints by hand.

Workshop One: Bold Beginnings – Soft Cut & Lino Printing

• Explore: The foundations of relief printmaking and carving techniques.
• Learn: How to simplify an image, think in reverse, use relief inks and create multiple editions from one plate.
• Create: A series of original lino prints from your own artwork.
  
  

Workshop Two: Texture & Discovery – Experimental Collagraphy

• Explore: Building richly textured printing plates using found and everyday materials. 
• Learn: Layering, embossing, colour, paper selection and experimental printmaking techniques. 
• Create: A collection of textured collagraph prints full of character and depth. 
  
  

Workshop Three: Fine Lines – Drypoint Etching

• Explore: The expressive qualities of intaglio printmaking.
• Learn: How to incise, ink and print a drypoint plate, creating delicate lines and tonal effects. 
• Create: A series of atmospheric drypoint prints from your own design. 

Meet Your Tutor: Jo Constable

Growing up in Manchester during the punk era taught Jo something that still shapes her creative practice today: creativity flourishes when you're free to experiment.

Originally trained in graphic design, Jo spent years learning the craft of print before rediscovering her passion for printmaking. Since then, she has exhibited widely throughout Wellington and Auckland and has enjoyed sharing her love of printmaking through workshops and teaching.

Jo believes printmaking is one of the most exciting creative processes because there are so many ways to approach it. Rather than worrying about getting everything "right", she encourages students to experiment, improvise and discover what happens when they embrace the process.

As Jo says:
"You don't have to follow the rules. You're simply invited to expand your own creativity and curiosity and push the boundaries."

Whether you're carving lino, building textured collagraph plates or creating delicate drypoint etchings, you'll learn practical techniques while discovering how printmaking encourages problem solving, creative thinking and the confidence to explore.

After all, as Jo likes to say: "I think I was born with ink under my nails."

What to Bring:

• Students are to bring some sketches and ideas of an artwork that they’d like to create.
• You can also bring any flat materials that are suitable for embossing the plate like ‘skeleton’ leaves, corn husks, fine lace etc.

Everything else will be provided by the tutor!

Can Anyone Do This Class?

Yes! This workshop is suitable for all levels, and absolutely beginner-friendly. If you love being creative, you’ll fit right in.