Yardley Arts

In this series of 3 half-day workshops, we will be learning linocut reduction technique methods.

Over 3 Fridays, you will be creating your own colourful linocuts using a 15cm x 20cm block. A reduction print is made up by gradually carving away more lino after each layer is printed. The process of carving away and printing is repeated on the same block until the final print is built up.

In the first session, we will learn about linocut and work on a small block. Either for complete novices, to learn the linocutting technique and for returners, to refresh their skills.

In the second session, we will learn about the reduction technique. Then start working on our image using colour pencils. Once we have a finalised image, we will trace and transfer our final drawing onto our vinyl block. We will try to complete carving our first layer and print our first layer by the end of the day.

In the third session, we will carry on with carving our next layer, then print and another… on repeat until we have completed all our layers. We will all end up with at least 5 final prints. We will also learn about other linocut artists using this method, registration technique and paper.

About Linocut… and what you will do
Linocut is a printmaking technique, a variant of woodcut in which a sheet of linoleum or vinyl is used for a relief surface.

You will be using a set of ABIG tools with changeable blades and wooden handles and a type of grey vinyl, Easy Carve, which can be easily bought online. The advantage of this type of vinyl is the contrast between the surface and the carved area. There are many brilliant water based relief inks out there too. There is no smell and absolutely washable with warm water in kitchen sinks! It has never been easier to immerse yourself into linocut printing at home.

What you need to bring
· An apron or old clothes
· We will take a short break at 12 noon for lunch / refreshments, bring a packed lunch if required

What is included

• All materials and tools are provided (tools to be returned at the end of the session unless you wish to purchase them at a cost of £12).
• Tea, coffee and biscuits

Yardley Arts tutor Cordell Garfield is back with his popular workshop ‘Portrait Painting in Oils’ which is an ideal introduction to portrait painting in oils. This is a one day workshop based on a step by step process to create a portrait from a photographic reference.

The workshop is designed to help both beginners and more experienced artists. Students will be able to create a realistic portrait.

The process will cover:

• Using oil paints
• The typical proportions of the face
• Measuring and mapping out key features from the photograph
• The use of line, tone, and value to create the portrait

Cordell will provide painting demonstrations throughout the day, and supporting handouts as part of the workshop, to explain the techniques and approach involved. You will create a portrait painting that you will be able to take away with you at the end of the workshop.

“I loved it! I know it’s a process, and understanding the process with Cordell’s regular check-ins and advice, I stuck with it to learn lots.” — Kim

What to bring
· An apron, or wear old clothes
· Reference photograph minimum size 10 x 8 inches/A4*
· Oil paints and brushes*
· Pre-coloured paper/board/canvas (size from 16 x 12 inches to 16 x 20 inches)*
· Palettes for mixing paint*
· Low odour solvent*
· Cloth/kitchen roll to clean brushes
· Packed lunch (optional)
* Items included if the inclusive price is paid when booking. Cordell can provide further advice on materials and photographic reference.

What is included

• Tea / coffee
• Items asterisked in the above list if the inclusive price is paid when booking