This in-person workshop takes place at CBA on February 17–18, 2024 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
- Saturday, February 17, 10:00am – 4:00pm
- Sunday, February 18, 10:00am – 4:00pm
Please Note: Registration for this workshop closes on February 10th, at 11:59 pm.
About the Workshop:
This in-person workshop is taught by CBA instructor Sarah Nicholls
The reduction printing process allows an artist create a multicolor print by carving into a single block multiple times and printing each layer in succession. It’s a very economical process for image making that ensures registration from layer to layer.
Using type-high plywood blocks, and oil-based inks, join us to learn how to print multi-color woodcuts on the Vandercook proof press. We will explore different approaches to mark-making and carving. We will cover mixing, registration, printing in multiple-colors and producing multiples.
Woodcuts can include the grain pattern of the block itself in the printed image, which enhances the expressive character of the print. Printing a woodcut on a Vandercook Proof Press makes the registration of multiple color runs much easier than using other methods.
Students will learn image preparation and transfer methods, sharpening and care of tools, wood carving methods, ink and paper preparation, and printing on the Vandercook proofing press. Both experienced and beginning relief printmakers are welcome!
Fun Fact: Relief printing is the oldest form of printmaking, and woodcuts have been printed in many ways across the world for hundreds of years.
Required Materials:
- Pencil
- A design/image for carving
- Set of Carving Tools (purchase from CBA or bring your own!)
All other materials will be provided by CBA.
About Sarah Nicholls
Sarah Nicholls is an artist, printmaker, and writer whose work combines language, image, visual narrative, and time. Her ongoing projects on climate change, urban ecology, and the history of science and technology include a series of letterpress pamphlets as well as participatory programs like guided urban/nature walks. Nicholls’ limited edition artist’s books are in the collections of the Victoria & Albert Museum, the Brooklyn Museum, Columbia University, and Stanford, among others. Her work has received support from the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council, the Brooklyn Arts Council, and the Puffin Foundation, and she has participated in residencies at BRIC House in Brooklyn, the Chicago Center for Book and Paper Arts, and Guttenberg Arts in New Jersey. Nicholls teaches letterpress and book arts at Pratt Institute and Parsons School of Design in New York City as well as the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.
All images courtesy of the instructor.