Course details
Discover the creative possibilities of Gelli printing in this playful and experimental one-day workshop with Lesley Plumridge.
Gelli printing is a highly versatile form of printmaking that uses a soft, gel-like plate to create one-off prints by hand. Instead of a traditional press, paint is rolled onto the surface of the plate and then manipulated using tools such as rollers, brushes, stencils, textured materials or everyday objects. Paper is pressed onto the plate to transfer the image, resulting in beautifully layered and unpredictable prints.
Over the course of the day, use simple tools and accessible techniques to explore how to create rich, layered prints full of colour, texture and unexpected results. The emphasis is on creative freedom and experimentation, encouraging you to let go of expectations and enjoy the process. You will build a collection of unique printed papers using a variety of approaches, including working with stencils, found materials, textures and mark-making. Lesley will show you how to layer colour, create depth, and develop visually engaging compositions through repetition and variation. Demonstrations and one-to-one guidance will support you as you explore different techniques and discover your own visual language. As your collection grows, you will have the opportunity to select and refine your favourite prints, considering composition, contrast and colour relationships. These can be developed further into resolved pieces or kept as a resource for future work.
What makes Gelli printing so appealing is its immediacy and sense of play. Each print is unique, with subtle variations in texture, colour and mark-making. Artists can build up layers, work transparently or opaquely, and experiment freely without the need for specialist equipment. It’s a process that encourages curiosity and exploration, often leading to unexpected and expressive results.
What will I learn?
- Develop an understanding of Gelli printing techniques, including layering, mark-making and working with stencils and textures
- Gain confidence in using accessible tools and materials to create expressive, one-off prints
- Learn how to combine repetition and variation to create depth and visually engaging surfaces
- Explore a more intuitive and experimental approach to printmaking that can be applied to future work
Who would this course suit?
Because of its accessibility and flexibility, Gelli printing is suitable for all levels—from complete beginners to more experienced artists looking to loosen up their practice and explore new ways of working.
Taught by
What to Bring
Our studios are fully equipped and we provide you with all the materials you need for your course. However, if you have a favourite set of brushes or any specialist materials that you would prefer to use, please bring them with you.
We will provide all the materials you need. If you have chosen a landscape class please wear appropriate footwear as you may spend time on the beach we look out over, a short walk from the studio.
Timings and Breaks
The course starts at 10am and finishes at 4.30pm, please aim to arrive ten to fifteen minutes before the start time. There are plenty of nearby places to eat and we will serve tea and coffee at break times during the day.
FAQs
Art Courses
Do you have to be experienced to come to the School?
No prior experience is required to join most of our art courses. The School of Painting is a friendly and welcoming environment for all ages and abilities, including complete beginners.
Our drop-in life drawing classes and short workshops are perfect if you’re trying painting for the first time. Many of our longer courses are also suitable for beginners, as our tutors are experienced in supporting mixed ability groups. If a course requires previous experience, this will be clearly stated on the course page.
Studio Courses
Can I bring my dog?
The studios are busy places with lots of equipment and not suitable for bringing a pet dog. We can accommodate assistance dogs with prior notice so we can make suitable adjustments. If you wish to bring an assistance dog please call 01736 797180 or email [email protected]
Can you help me choose the right course?
Yes, our friendly and knowledgeable team are always happy to help you choose the best course for your needs, whether you’re a beginner or looking to develop specific skills.
Please call us on 01736 797180 to discuss your options.
How do I get my work home?
Tutors have special techniques for transporting oil paintings and for our 3 day courses we will give you a plastic folder with a handle. These are also available to purchase for £3.50 or do bring a portfolio.
Please note: For the course Bigger, Bolder, Braver with Boo Mallinson, we will provide a large A1 size plastic folder for your work but please consider how you will be able to transport the larger canvases home safely before signing up for the course as we will not be able to store large paintings in the studio. On this course you will be painting on a 50cms x 50cms and a 1m x 1m canvas alongside smaller pieces.
For international students we are happy to arrange transportation of your work back home, postal costs will be borne by you.
What do I need to bring?
Absolutely nothing! All materials and aprons are provided although some people do like to bring their own set of brushes.
What do I do for lunch?
Courses allow an hour’s break for lunch and there are numerous places nearby or you are welcome to bring a packed lunch into the studio.
What times do courses run?
Most of our courses start at 10am and end at 4.30pm on the first day. Subsequent days we start at 9.30am ending at 4pm.
Short workshops start at 10am in the Summer and 9.30am/ 1.30pm during September festival
Booking a Course
How do I reserve a place on a course?
You can book your place online or by calling us on 01736 797180.
If you need time to arrange accommodation, we can hold a provisional booking for 24 hours. To secure your place, a £100 deposit is required, with the remaining balance due 12 weeks before the course start date.
About St Ives
Where can I park near the School?
The nearest long-stay car parks are:
Island Car Park
Barnoon Long Stay Car Park
Both are approximately a 5-minute walk from the School.
During the busy summer months, you may find it easier to park at Trenwith Car Park near the leisure centre and walk into town. A shuttle bus often runs back up the hill from near Tate St Ives.
How do I get to the School of Painting in St Ives?
By train:
The nearest mainline station is St Erth, which is approximately a 15-minute taxi journey away. From there, you can also take the St Ives Bay Line, which runs every 30 minutes. The School is a 10-minute walk from St Ives station.
By car:
Take the M5 to Exeter, then follow the A30 into Cornwall. After passing Hayle, exit at the St Erth roundabout towards St Ives. Continue through Lelant and Carbis Bay into St Ives..
Where can I stay in St Ives?
St Ives offers a wide range of accommodation, including hotels, guest houses, and self-catering options. You can explore options on our website, or contact us directly on 01736 797180 if you’d like personalised recommendations.
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