Wood Engraving Workshop with Anne Desmet RA

Join artist and co-curator of Guildhall Art Gallery's new exhibition, Anne Desmet: Kaleidoscope/London, for an interactive 'introduction to wood engraving' workshop.

During this one-day masterclass you will learn the basics of wood engraving, create two engraved woodblocks and go home with several prints of your own design. All materials will be provided.

About the workshop

With the expert guidance of Anne Desmet RA, you will:

• Explore how historic and contemporary engravings were created
• Learn about different tool marks and how to recognize and use the tools that made them
• Learn about the different types of wood suitable for engraving
• Practice using the full range of specialist engraving tools
• Cut and print at least two small engravings exploring a wide range of mark-making possibilities
• Discover how to ink effectively, how to hand-print and about the different paper types
• Get advice on equipment and supplies for wood engraving and a demonstration of tool care/sharpening
• Go home with several prints of one or two of your very own engraved and hand-printed woodblocks and sufficient understanding and experience to pursue printing independently.

Workshop Dates, Duration & Attendance

This workshop will take place on Saturday 14 December, and will last 5 hours, from 10:30am to 4pm, with a 30 minute break for lunch.

Numbers have been kept deliberately low to aid enjoyment and promote health and safety.

This experience is designed for adults and is suitable for all levels, beginners included.

Accompanied children are welcome, although the suggested minimum age is 12 years old.

Accessibility

Seating is provided for the duration of the workshop.

Manual dexterity will be required for the safe handling of very sharp tools.

Guildhall Art Gallery is wheelchair accessible. Read more about accessibility guidance on Guildhall Art Gallery's visitor information page.