Contemporary Printmaking Techniques

Expand your creative vision through an immersive 8-week printmaking course designed to introduce you to a variety of techniques, including lino and woodcut, dry point etching, aluminium or copper etching, and Monoprinting. You’ll explore these methods through hands-on demonstrations and examples, allowing you to deepen your understanding of printmaking while building your creative skills. The course is suitable for beginners and those with prior experience, providing a welcoming environment to learn or refine your abilities.

Throughout the course, you’ll work on creating a series of prints, experimenting with layering processes, multiple plates, and sensory drawing exercises to expand your artistic horizons. Led by Brenda Tye, you’ll gain insight into both contemporary and traditional printmaking practices, finding inspiration in the flexibility and creative possibilities of the medium.

As you engage with the tactile nature of printmaking, from using acids to etch metal to experiencing the unique grain and resistance of wood, you’ll quickly build confidence and ambition in your work. You'll also learn the rhythmic flow of lino cutting, adding depth and texture to your prints.

Brenda will provide personalized guidance based on your individual vision, skill level, and experience. Bring your images, photos, drawings, and ideas to the first class, where you'll receive tailored advice on how to bring them to life through printmaking. Whether you're looking to develop new techniques or expand your existing skills, this course will support your artistic growth.

* Please note that there is no class on Saturday 7 June due to the long weekend.

Brenda Tye is an artist and printmaker based in Sydney working on Gadigal land. She won the Waverly Art Print Prize in 2018, has work in the Australian National Gallery, and holds regular exhibitions. Brenda is an experienced lecturer, who has worked as a master printer for many fine artists over the last 20 years. She teaches printmaking in the NAS short courses and Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program, as well as at the Art Gallery of NSW Society.

Students must supply their own art materials, please refer to the list below.

• Visual diary or sketch book 
• Bring along a selection of visual materials, including your own sketches and drawings, printed photos, computer print outs, text from books, newspapers etc 
• A selection of drawing materials including pencils, charcoal, permanent makers. Bring what you have as more can be purchased throughout the course. 
• Stencil knife and scissors 
• Glue stick 
• Box of nitrile gloves (can be purchased from supermarkets or hardware stores) 
• Pair of washing up gloves 
• P2 masks 
• Protective apron or old shirt
• Enclosed footwear is essential in all studios on campus.

Additional materials 

Brenda will discuss additional materials at the first class. Throughout the course you will be required to purchase printmaking papers and particular plates for etching and relief printing. Brenda will discuss all the varied options, costs and suppliers. You can purchase most of your supplies at Parkers Art Supplies on the NAS campus (open on Saturdays) and some items from hardware stores.