June workshops
Etching and printing
Non-toxic aluminum etching and printing
In this 4-day course set in the unique ecology of the Burren, participants will learn about drawing on and preparing plates for etching, how to safely etch a plate and, finally, how to print a plate. Every participant will leave the course with improved knowledge of printmaking, some preparatory drawing studies and a set of finished prints.
Day 1 will see the course begin with an overview of printmaking and etching and a focus on drawing, using the wonderful Burren surroundings for inspiration.
Day 2 will begin with plate preparation moving on to plate etching later in the day.
The last two days will focus on different ways of printing plates and finally how to flatten, sign, store and present the prints.
By keeping the class size to 8 participants, the course leader can work to everyone’s own level of experience and skill and, as such, beginners and experts are all welcome.
Using safe etching processes, participants can learn about mixing a copper sulphate solution and how to use aluminum plates. Non toxic inks and cleaning solutions will also be used, significantly cutting down on any harmful fumes to provide a safe and positive working environment for all participants.
Tutor bio
Clare Henderson is a visual artist specializing in painting and printmaking, with a profound focus on land and sea themes. In 2005, she was honoured with The Graphic Studio Graduate Award and membership for Graphic Studio Dublin, where she nurtured her artistic practice and remains a member to this day. Clare’s artistic pursuits encompass exhibitions, commissioned works, collaborations, residencies and teaching.Clare taught etching and intaglio processes at Graphic Studio Dublin from 2006 until she moved to Clifden in 2022. As her interest in teaching printmaking has continued, Clare has developed a number of art and printmaking projects in a collection of schools and studios across Ireland.
Clare’s artworks can be found in the permanent collections of prestigious institutions like The National Gallery of Ireland, The Law Library, Mayo County Council, The Office of Public Works and private collections and her talent has also been recognised with the Graham Wilkinson printmaking award at the RHA Annual Summer Exhibition in 2017.
Clare completed her Master’s thesis using themes on haunting as a focus for her study and has spent the past few years developing her practice in the West of Ireland, where she lives.
Clare is now working as visual arts coordinator for the Clifden Arts Festival and is mainly focusing on her drawing practice.