Believed to be one of the oldest methods of printmaking, invented in the 15th century, drypoint etching is the technique of scratching an image into the surface of card, plastic, or metal.
Ink is pushed into the scratches, the excess wiped off, and the plate covered with damp paper and pushed through a traditional etching press. The plate can then be re-inked and reprinted, creating multiples of the image.
This month Lismore-based printmaker, artist, and educator Christine Porter will run a two-day immersive drypoint etching workshop at Ignite Studios in Ballina, exploring this fascinating technique as part of the Northern Rivers Community Gallery’s (NRCG) mid-year public programs.
This workshop is suitable for beginner and emerging printmakers, artists from other creative disciplines, and experienced printmakers who will be encouraged to extend their knowledge base.
Working small and with their own drawings, participants will create traditional drypoint plates and print with basic colours to produce a collection of experimental prints, and one small final printed work ready to frame.
Closed toed shoes are a must, and clothes will get inky so old clothes or an apron are advised.
Christine Porter is a full-time professional painter and printmaker based in Lismore. Her work is held in the National Gallery of Australia, in public and corporate collections across Australia, and private collections worldwide. She has been awarded more than 200 prizes since 1990, including the 2006 MacGregor Fellowship from the University of Southern Queensland. She is a trained and qualified teacher, and has a Bachelor of Visual Arts, majoring in printmaking.
NRCG’s printmaking workshops in February and March this year sold out fast, with waiting lists for each class, so early bookings for this workshop are strongly encouraged via the NRCG website.
For more information visit nrcgballina.com.au or contact the Gallery on 02 6681 0530
Event Details:
Title: Introduction to Printmaking: Drypoint Etching with Christine Porter
Date: Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 June 2023
Time: 10am – 3pm both days (includes break for lunch)
Where: Ignite Studios – 60 Crane Street Ballina
Ages: 18+
Cost: $260 (all tools and materials included)
