Nine members took part in our collaborative print day encouraged by Sarah Hopkins and guest artist Sameera Khan. Using the theme funghi and a whole range of specimens to draw inspiration from, designs were transferred to small printing blocks using both relief and collagraph
Once the blocks were finished, they were inked up individually and assembled on the matrix.
Using a damped sheet of Somerset Satin 300gms, the paper has to be very carefully laid down so as not to disturb the blocks
The paper is covered with a clean sheet of acid free tissue to protect the paper and the blocks
The three blankets are then laid carefully on top
Then there is quite a bit of hard work winding the bed through the large rollers creating huge pressure on the blocks and causing the ink to transfer to the paper.
Getting the pressure right for the amount of ink is a fine art.
A great moment when the perfect print comes off the press. An edition of 12 were printed so that everyone who took part would have a print and the studio will retain an archive copy.
A great moment when the perfect print comes off the press. An edition of 10 were printed so that everyone who took part would have a print.
A great print to take home after a stimulating day in the workshop working with other printmakers.
The orange areas were made with a process called Chîne collé. Pieces of coloured paper are laid on top of the block and glued to the print as it goes through the press.
Finally everyone signs off all the prints