What’s On
What’s On
Past Exhibitions
Upcoming Exhibitions
Cyanotype Printmaking with Josephine McCormick
Cyanotype Printmaking with Josephine McCormick
This is a beginner-friendly class whether it is your first time with printmaking and you’d like to do something creative in your spare time or build upon existing creative practice - everybody is welcome.
Josephine McCormick, our tutor, will demonstrate each stage of the cyanotype technique, provide samples, and offer support and advice throughout the day. You will be given a handbook for your reference as well.
A cyanotype is a process that produces a lovely cyan-blue image when paper, coated with a light-sensitive liquid, is exposed to ultraviolet light. It is a wonderfully flexible, simple, and beautiful print process!
You will have lots of time and space to make your work and experiment with the range of techniques that cyanotype printing allows and will leave with a handful of your prints at the end of the day.
All materials are provided, but you are welcome to bring your own botanicals. These could be leaves or flowers you have picked or flat objects such as pieces of lace or feathers.
Details
Saturday 20th April, 2024. 10am – 4pm
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Collagraph Course with Ivan Frew
Collagraph is a printmaking technique that has evolved as an experimental process involving layering and glueing. This technique is quite simple to understand and can be picked up quickly. The resulting images are visually rich, painterly and textured.
To create a collagraph print, you start by making a printing plate out of materials like card, Polyfilla, PVA glue, wood glue, carborundum, fabric, natural materials, or acrylic floor varnish. These materials are relatively inexpensive and easy to find.
Once you have your printing plate, you can start to build up the image by adding more layers of materials. This can be done by gluing different textures, shapes, or colours onto the plate. You can use anything from string and lace to sand and leaves to create interesting textures and patterns.
Once the plate is complete, ink is applied to the surface, filling in the areas between the raised textures. Then, a sheet of paper is pressed onto the plate, transferring the ink onto the paper and creating a print.
The beauty of collagraph printing is that the resulting prints are one-of-a-kind and have a unique texture and character. It's an affordable and accessible printmaking technique that can be easily adapted to fit any style or skill level.
Details
All materials are provided
Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th April, 2024. 10am-4pm
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Bookbinding with Karen Daye-Hutchinson
Join artist Karen Daye-Hutchinson for an immersive course on Bookbinding. In this course, you'll have the opportunity to delve into the world of Artists' Books, combining traditional bookbinding techniques with a touch of sculptural artistry.
You'll embark on a creative journey, exploring the intricacies of bookbinding, closely with Karen Daye-Hutchinson, a renowned artist, as she guides you through the process of creating a stunning book. Using beautiful traditional book cloth, you'll learn how to construct durable and visually captivating covers.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to engage in a hands-on experience, expand your creative horizons, and acquire valuable bookbinding skills.
Details
Saturday 30th March 2024. 10am - 4pm
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Lino Relief Carving Course with Dónall Billings
Explore the Art of Linocut Printmaking! Join our exciting two-day class and unlock your creativity with lino carving and printing. Whether you're a beginner or simply want to experience the joy of carving and printing, this course is perfect for you.
All the materials you need will be provided, and our expert instructors will guide you every step of the way. No need to worry about bringing anything else but your enthusiasm!
Please note that the lino size for this class is limited to A5 (14.8 x 21 cm). This allows for focused learning and ensures you can create a stunning piece within the workshop's timeframe.
To make your experience truly personal, please bring along an image or idea to work from. It could be anything that inspires you – drawings, sketches, or even photographs. Feel free to bring your images in paper or digital formats, compatible with MAC computers on USB.
Mark your calendars for the upcoming class, which will be held over two days, with a week's break in between. This allows ample time for carving, refining, and perfecting your linocut print.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to explore the art of linocut printmaking! Join us, unleash your creativity, and walk away with a beautiful piece of art that you can proudly display. Reserve your spot today and let the artistic journey begin!
Details
Two-part Course
Tuesday 6th February, 2024. 6pm - 9pm
Image selection, press preparation, health and safety, drawing your image on the lino, carving the image
Tuesday 13th February 2024. 6pm - 9pm
Mixing inks, finish carving the image, paper preparation, proofing the print, printing a limited edition. Cleaning up, storing and caring for prints
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Drypoint Printmaking with Coby Moore
Discover the fascinating world of printmaking by exploring the versatile and dynamic techniques of drypoint. In this workshop, you will learn how to create unique and expressive prints that are full of detail and texture.
Drypoint is a printmaking technique where a design is scratched into a metal or plastic plate using a sharp tool, creating fine lines and delicate details that result in a unique and expressive look. Using a matrix (perspex), you will explore abstract and illustrative ways to create your designs, resulting in prints that are visually interesting and complex.
In this workshop, you will learn how to create a matrix with drypoint lines. You will also learn how to print onto high-quality, archival printing paper using archival inks to ensure that your prints will last a long time without fading or deteriorating.
Whether you're an experienced artist or new to printmaking, this workshop is a great opportunity to expand your skills and express your creativity in new ways. Come join us and learn the techniques of drypoint and carborundum printmaking to create unique and expressive prints that are full of detail and texture.
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Hardback Book Binding with Karen Daye-Hutchinson
Make a beautiful hand stitched book during this I day course. Learn the essentials of this craft with step-by-step instructions on how to make your own journal or artist book. This is a great foundation in traditional bookmaking and how it can be adapted.
Date: Saturday 9 December
Time: 10am – 4pm (sandwich lunch & materials included)
Venue: Down County Museum
Price: £55/£50 concession
Tutor: Karen Daye-Hutchinson
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Drypoint Workshop with Coby Moore
Drypoint is an intaglio printmaking method that involves scratching an image into a plate with a pointed tool. These lines create a burr that holds ink, meaning that the print reveals the drawing. Intaglio printmaking is the opposite of relief printmaking as it is the sunken areas of the plate that print rather than the raised areas.
Drypoint is an easy technique to get to grips with and is a great method if you would like to take your drawings into print. It’s easier than etching as it requires less specialist equipment and no chemicals or acids. Drypoint plates can be made in copper, zinc or plastic.
Drypoint workshops are suitable for both beginners or people who have done some printmaking before but want a refresher. Experience in printmaking is not required as the tutor will guide you through each process in a step-by-step way through demonstrations and showing examples of the different techniques.
To ensure a focused learning experience, the image size for this course will be limited to A5 - A4 size plastic plates printed onto archival paper. This allows you to concentrate on the techniques and create a high-quality print within the workshop's timeframe.
Please bring along an image or idea that inspires you. It could be a drawing, a sketch, or even a photograph.
All materials are provided on this course.
Date: Saturday 18 November
Time: 10am – 4pm (sandwich lunch & materials included)
Venue: Down County Museum
Price: £55/£50 concession
Tutor: Coby Moore
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Screen Print Workshop with Dónall Billings
You will get the opportunity of printing onto paper using a selected colour or black ink. Whether you're a beginner, seeking a refresher, or eager to print a specific image, this course is perfect for you.
Additionally, we'll guide you through paper preparation, ink and medium mixing, and the final printing process.
The class is designed to be accessible and beneficial to both beginners and those looking to refresh their skills. We provide a supportive environment where you can explore your creativity and develop your screen-printing abilities.
Please bring along an image or idea that inspires you. It could be a drawing, a sketch, or even a photograph.
To ensure a focused learning experience, the image size for this course will be limited to A4 (21 x 29.7 cm). This allows you to concentrate on the techniques and create a high-quality print within the workshop's timeframe.
Rest assured, all the materials you need, as well as expert guidance, will be provided throughout the class. Just bring your enthusiasm, and we'll take care of the rest!
Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the art of screen printing. Reserve your spot today and get ready to unleash your creativity and walk away with beautiful, printed pieces that you can proudly showcase. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the world of screen printing!
Please forward your images (A4 size) to studio@bpw.org.uk in preparation for this class as screens will be prepared in advance of the class.
Date: Saturday 21 October
Time: 10am – 4pm (sandwich lunch & materials included)
Venue: Down County Museum
Price: £55/£50 concession
Tutor: Dónall Billings
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Linocut Printmaking with Dónall Billings
Explore the Art of Linocut Printmaking! Join our exciting one-day class and unlock your creativity with lino carving and printing. Whether you're a beginner or simply want to experience the joy of carving and printing, this course is perfect for you. Get ready to transfer your image onto archival printmaking paper using a single selected colour or black ink.
All the materials you need will be provided, and our expert instructors will guide you every step of the way. No need to worry about bringing anything else but your enthusiasm!
Please note that the lino size for this class is limited to A5 (14.8 x 21 cm). This allows for focused learning and ensures you can create a stunning piece within the workshop's timeframe.
To make your experience truly personal, please bring along an image or idea to work from. It could be anything that inspires you – drawings, sketches, or even photographs.
Mark your calendars for the upcoming class. This allows ample time for carving, refining, and perfecting your linocut print.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to explore the art of linocut printmaking! Join us, unleash your creativity, and walk away with a beautiful piece of art that you can proudly display. Reserve your spot today and let the artistic journey begin!
Date: Saturday 30 September
Time: 10:00am – 4pm (sandwich lunch & materials included)
Venue: Down County Museum
Price: £55/£50 concession
Tutor: Dónall Billings
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Etching & Aquatint Weekend Course with Karen Daye-Hutchinson
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Collagraph Weekend Course with Ivan Frew
Collagraph is a printmaking technique that has evolved as an experimental process involving layering and glueing. This technique is quite simple to understand and can be picked up quickly. The resulting images are visually rich, painterly and textured.
Screen Printing CMYK — Weekend class, 24 & 25 June 2023 (SOLD OUT)
Screen Printing CMYK with artist Neil Kerr — Weekend class, 24 & 25 June 2023
Woodcut Relief Printmaking with Declan Byrne
Discover the timeless art of woodcut printmaking and learn how to create stunning, textured prints with this upcoming class.
Viscosity Monoprinting Weekend Course with Josephine McCormick
Join BPW tutor Josephine McCormick for an exciting weekend course in Monoprinting. This unique printmaking method utilises the repelling properties of differently viscous coloured inks to produce a one-of-a-kind, multi-coloured monoprint without the risk of colour overlap or muddy tones.
Drypoint & Carborundum with Coby Moore
Discover the fascinating world of printmaking by exploring the versatile and dynamic techniques of drypoint and carborundum. In this workshop, you will learn how to create unique and expressive prints that are full of detail and texture.
Collagraph Printmaking Weekend Course with Ivan Frew
Collagraph is a printmaking technique that has evolved as an experimental process involving layering and glueing. This technique is quite simple to understand and can be picked up quickly. The resulting images are visually rich, painterly and textured.
Etched Linocut Weekend Course with Artist in Residence Scarlett Rebecca
Etched Linocut with Artist in Residence Scarlett Rebecca – 27th & 28th May 2023
£140.00
Etched linocut is a dynamic printmaking technique that can change the way you approach relief printing. With a caustic soda-based etch, you can create organic and spontaneous recesses in the linoleum block, resulting in a wide range of mark making with tonal variation, which can be combined with carved marks.
In this weekend class, you'll learn the basics of etched linocut and work with resists and direct application of the etch on two blocks. By the end of the weekend, you'll have created a small edition of colourful prints and proofs. The class is suitable for both beginners and those looking to refresh their printmaking skills.
We're delighted to welcome artist-in-residence Scarlett Rebecca to Belfast Print Workshop in May 2023. She'll be leading this class on etched linocut, which offers a different angle on the relief printing process. You'll have the chance to experience Scarlett's work while using our 200-year-old relief presses to print your artwork on archival paper.
Details
Weekend class
Saturday 27th May 2023 - 10am - 4pm
Sunday 28th May 2023 - 10am - 4pm
Intensive Beginner Textile Screen Printing with René Mullin
Details
Evening Class (2.5 hours)
Thursday 27th April, 6.00— 8.30pm
One colour textile print class
Using paper stencils you will learn the art of stencil cutting, and making prints on textiles.
This class will give you a full breadth of knowledge on how to print an image through a silk screen onto a piece of textile for later use as a craft piece or as a hanging/frameable fine art print.
In this new and improved intensive beginner class you will learn about screenprinting on textiles. You will produce your own hand cut paper stencil design and print it on textiles. René will explain how textile printmaking varies from paper printmaking, she will guide you through a step by step process in designing, printing and finishing your own textile print. All materials will be supplied.
You will leave with a handprinted piece and a handprinted zine to guide you through the process, and a list on where to source all the materials and equipment should you want to try the technique again at home.
René has been printing textiles and selling her work throughout Ireland and beyond for over 15 years.
René is a member of Visual Artists Ireland and currently a Design Ireland maker with the Design and Craft Council of Ireland.
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Artist Book, Hard Cover — Weekend course with Karen Daye-Hutchinson
A two-day course exploring Artists' Books. Concentrating on hardback covers you will explore traditional bookbinding and a more sculptural exhibition piece.
Experimental Screen Printing with Linda Barbour
Images from Experimental Screen Printing - 16/01/23
Experimental Screen-printing class, delivered in three hours — create your own masterpieces on paper with Belfast-based artist Linda Barbour. An introduction to the Screen printing process.
Details
Evening Class (3 hours)
Friday 14th April, 6.00— 9.00pm
In the 3 hour session participants will be taking through the whole process start to finish and then try their hand at printing their own one-colour print .
There will be prepared images to print for those not emailing their own.
Email your own image to lindabdesigns@hotmail.com
The best images to use have bold lines and high contrast , such as text or digital illustrations. Photographs will not be used in this 3 hr session. If you don’t have suitable image I have prepared designs for you to choose from.
A fun-packed 3 hour class.
LInda J Barbour ( LJB )
Materials are provided and you’ll have your choice of images to work with, resulting in your own, unique piece of art.
Each class is limited to 10 people.
Refreshments provided.
Friday 14/04/23, 6.00 - 9.00pm
Upcoming Classes
Gallery Shop
Photo Resistant Film & Etching - Four week class with Dónall Billings
Join us for an exciting four-week class on photo resistant film and etching, led by the talented Dónall Billings. This accessible course combines traditional and digital printmaking techniques to produce unique and surprising results.
During the class, you'll explore aluminum salt etching, which uses sodium chloride and copper sulfate to create deep black tonal qualities in your prints. You'll also experiment with different resists made of various materials to create a range of tones, textures, and depths in your work.
The course will combine the use of photo resist film with hand-drawn imagery and mark-making to create stunning and dynamic prints. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced printmaker, you'll gain valuable insights into the etching process and learn new techniques to improve your work.
All materials will be provided, so you can focus on exploring your creativity and creating beautiful prints. Don't miss this exciting opportunity to learn from Dónall Billings and take your printmaking skills to the next level. Sign up now!