This workshop will introduce participants to the simple technique of Drypoint Etching and Chine Collé using the rich collection of botanical specimens, found objects and wildlife in the Botanic Garden as inspiration. Drypoint is the simplest and most direct form of intaglio fine art printmaking. It lends itself to drawing and mark making.  Chine collé describes the technique of adding colour and texture, using starch paste and lightweight archival papers.  At the start of the workshop, participants will learn how to prepare and select suitable artwork and then how to transfer simple drawings onto drypoint plates. The tutor will show examples of finished prints and demonstrate how to safely use the drypoint tools. After lunch, participants will learn how to ink up and print their prepared drypoint plates, using oil-based inks and a small etching press. A selection of ready prepared archival papers will be available for chine collé.

Susie Turner works as a visual artist and educator with a specialism in Fine Art printmaking. She graduated in Fine Art Printmaking from Cambridge School of Art and gained an MA in Visual Arts and Printmaking at Camberwell College of Art. The local natural landscape is a constant source of visual ideas and Susie often works directly with existing material, ‘found’ and ‘made’, that has the potential to change state over time or bears visual reminders of past activity.