Printing Pride: Stories in Ink – 6 x session & exhibition Printmaking Program

This program has been made possible through the support of a Hobsons Bay City Council grant, enabling participants to access 24 hours of specialist printmaking workshops, materials and equipment at a very low cost and the opportunity to exhibit their work at Woods Street Studio - 54 Woods Street, Laverton, reducing financial barriers to creative participation.

A welcoming six-session spread out over a three week program for LGBTQIA+ people and allies aged 18+, exploring three printmaking techniques.. Each block allows participants time to learn the process, develop their own imagery and produce a series of finished artworks. No previous experience is required and all materials are provided.

Weeks 1 & 2 – Screen Printing Learn how screen printing works, develop bold imagery and create stencils for printing and etch photos and drawings onto screens using a uv exposure unit. Participants will explore ink application, registration and squeegee techniques before producing their own designs on paper and fabric.

Weeks 3 & 4 – Lino Printing Design and transfer an image onto lino, learn safe carving techniques and experiment with line, pattern, positive and negative space. Participants will ink and print their blocks using a printing press, producing a small edition of original prints.

Weeks 5 & 6 – Dry Point Etching Explore drawing, mark-making, texture and expressive line by creating an etched plate. Learn how to prepare, ink and wipe the plate before printing a series of original works. The final session will also include selecting and preparing artworks for the public exhibition at Woods Street Arts Space.

Participants will leave with three new printmaking skills, multiple original artworks, increased creative confidence and the opportunity to have their work exhibited publicly at Woods street Arts Space from the 19th Feb - 9th March.