The intaglio workshop was the one I was looking forward to the most. I enjoy this method of printing and experimented with it a little throughout my foundation diploma. During the intaglio workshop we went through all of the safety regulations of the studio and were shown around during our session so that we’d be able to find everything once we come back on our own. 

For the drypoint etching we first discussed mark making and the variety of tools you are able to use to create different effects. We then created a collaborative piece together, where each one of us had about 30 seconds to make a mark with a tool of choice. Once we had created marks on the example print we then followed the process of printing this piece, in order to acquire all the vital information to be able to print our own ones on the following day. 

On the following day everyone had created a design on their own to be able to print from independently. This type of printmaking I enjoy most, due to being able to have full control over the marks I create and how much ink I apply. 

For the second part of the workshop we went through the process of creating a lino print. Before designing our own piece, we again, discussed mark making and experimented on a small piece of lino with a tool that had 5 different sizes to carve with. Even though I have made a couple of lino prints before, I still get confused as to which area will print, because when carving out areas, these wont actually show. This makes the first look at my print quite exciting.

The next day everyone had their completed lino prints with them and was ready to print. We were given a step-to-step guide on how to use the presses and created a number of prints on our own, as well as a ‘ghost print’, where the lino is printed twice without inking it up again in between. 

We also made a collaborative print together in this workshop. Everyone inked up their plate as usual, but put sellotape onto the back of it, to help us place this onto a colourful print covered in randomly placed squares. For this print we had to use the larger scale press. The print turned out extremely well, I find the colours compliment each other and also bring out the lino prints, as these were printed with black ink. Even though everyones lino was very unique, I found that it works together as a whole.