Drawing inspiration from plants and view in the Glasshouse Range in the Botanic Garden, we will adapt a sketch or photograph and transfer your image into a reduction linocut. Using the ‘reduction process’ create a layered image using two contrasting colour palettes.

Day 1

• Look at print examples, explanation about the reduction method of linocut
• Observing, sketching and photographing out in the Glasshouse Range, Emma will demonstrate how to plan your reduction landscape print
• Emma will demonstrate how to make a coloured plan for your print and plan your reduction layers
• Learn cutting techniques and explore mark-making using Lino tools
• Cut your first layer
• Register your block to create accurate layers
• Apply inks with rollers, and print using a press, and hand burnishing
• Print test colour combinations
• Print two sets of prints of your first layer, using both colour palettes

Day 2

• Continue to work on your reduction print image
• Cut and print your second layer on top of your first, in both colour ways
• Cut and print your final layer for both colour ways

The course is suitable for beginners as well as those with some experience of linocut techniques. Materials and some tools will be available to use, but you will need your own set of lino cutting tools, as well as a box or folder to take away your prints.

Emma James is Cambridge based Contemporary Artist, Printmaker and Tutor. She has a Masters Degree in Fine Art from the Cambridge School of Art, and has taught at Kettles Yard, Cambridge School of Art, Cambridge University Botanic Garden, Stapleford Granary, Artworks as well as a number of schools and colleges.  She joined the team at The Curwen Print Study Centre as a Fine Art Printmaking tutor in 2010.  She has a multi-disciplinary practice and has exhibited work around the UK, in group and solo exhibitions.