Paper Lithography: Marks, Surface + Process

Printmaking / Landscape - Materials included

Book Selected Date

Course details

Discover the magic of paper lithography, with time to print, experiment and explore the possibilities of this highly accessible technique.

Paper lithography is a highly accessible form of printmaking that can be carried out with simple equipment, with or without a press, making it a wonderfully flexible way to develop ideas through print.

The course offers a playful and experimental approach to printmaking, combining mark-making, image-making and personal storytelling. Rather than rushing towards a final outcome, there will be time to really get to know the process, build confidence and discover what makes a successful print.

Begin by gathering inspiration from the St Ives landscape through sketching and photography. You’ll explore which images translate well into lithography, learn how to edit and prepare them for printing, and experiment with inks, plates and different printing methods. Working with black and rich red-brown inks, you’ll focus on producing clean, crisp prints while developing a stronger understanding of the printing process.

As the course progresses, you’ll be encouraged to push the technique further, introduce new imagery and begin directing the work in your own way. There will be space to follow the subjects, marks and ideas that interest you most, allowing personal themes and visual stories to begin to emerge.

Helen will also introduce the idea of using paper lithography within artist books and concertina formats, offering inspiration for how the work could continue beyond the course. By the end, you will have developed greater confidence and knowledge of paper lithography, a collection of resolved and experimental prints, and plenty of ideas for taking the process forward in your own direction.

Day to day plan

This is a rough indication of what to expect over the course. However sometimes the structure of the days may alter depending on the nature of the group and weather.

Day 1

Introductions in the studio will be followed by an outdoor session to gather reference photographs and sketches. We’ll then discuss and demonstrate how to prepare and edit imagery to get the best from your prints, using simple tools available on most phones, with Procreate on the iPad shown as an optional example.

Day 2

Demos on ink mixing and basic lithography techniques. Focus on experimenting with lithography, exploring creative ways to take your prints beyond the basics. Helen will support students with individual advice and further demos. End the day with a round up and look at choosing new images for the following morning.

Day 3

Continue printmaking with new imagery. Experiment and push the boundaries to see what is possible. Helen will introduce further ideas of how to incorporate paper lithography in your art practice. Collect your favourite work together and celebrate your achievements as a group.

What will I learn?

This course is ideal for anyone interested in exploring printmaking in a hands-on, creative way, whether you’re a beginner or have some experience. It’s perfect for artists, illustrators, or makers who want to experiment with mark-making, image-making, and storytelling. No press is required, making it accessible to all who want to explore paper lithography and develop their own visual narrative.

Paper Lithography: Marks, Surface and Process

Printmaking / Landscape – Materials included

Book Selected Date

Taught by

Cross pollination, experimentation and combining different techniques is very much part of my creative practice. Born from observing, experiencing and reflecting on time spent out in the landscape. It is exciting to watch students who have never tried paper lithography, grasp the technique and run with it!

What to Bring

Our studios are fully equipped and we provide you with all the materials you need for your course.

nb: Helen has asked that it would be helpful if students can come prepared with some images on their phones or and ipad/tablet incase they have a specific topic or project that they wish to pursue in mind already or bad weather limits time sketching outside.

Timings and Breaks

The first day starts at 10am and finishes at 4.30pm, please aim to arrive ten to fifteen minutes before the start time.

All course days after that start at 9.30am and finish at 4pm and there will be an hour for lunch. 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 I need any previous art experience?

Not always. We offer courses for all levels, including complete beginners, intermediate students and more experienced artists. You can look for the experience level listed on the individual course page to find the most suitable option for you. If you need any guidance on what course might suit you best, contact on our friendly team on 01736 797180 and they will be able to help.

Art Courses in St Ives

How do I log in to my online account?

To log in to your account, please follow these steps:

  1. Go to our website: www.schoolofpainting.co.uk
  2. Click on the ‘Log in’ button (usually found near the top right of the page)
  3. Enter the email address and you used when booking
  4. Click “Log in” to access your account

Once logged in, you’ll be able to view your bookings, outstanding payments, online courses and any relevant account information.

If you’ve forgotten your password, simply click ‘Forgot password?’ on the login page and follow the instructions to reset it.

If you have any trouble accessing your account, please email us and we’ll be happy to help.

Do you offer art classes for children and teenagers?

Yes. Our Young Artists Programme includes art workshops for children and teenagers, with sessions designed for different age groups. During the summer, we also run creative workshops for children aged 7-13.

How large are your art classes?

Our studio courses are taught in small groups of around 10 to 12 people, allowing tutors to provide individual guidance alongside group demonstrations and discussions.

What is included in an art course?

Course fees include professional tuition from a practising artist and use of the School’s studio facilities. Materials and equipment are all included in our in person courses, workshops and life drawing sessions – so you can just turn up and get started. Teas and coffees are also provided throughout the day.

Can I attend an art course on my own?

Absolutely. Many students come to St Ives School of Painting independently. Courses offer a welcoming and sociable environment, with plenty of opportunities to meet other people who share an interest in making and learning.

Do you offer beginner painting courses?

Yes. Our programme includes beginner-friendly painting courses covering materials such as oils, acrylics and watercolours. These courses introduce you to essential tools and techniques while giving you plenty of time to practise and explore your own ideas.

How do I choose the right art course?

Start by considering how you would like to work. You may want to learn a particular medium, improve a skill such as drawing or colour mixing, explore a subject such as landscape or still life, or develop a more personal approach. Each course page explains the content, materials, level and teaching approach to help you decide. Our friendly, helpful team are always available to help further.

Please call us on 01736 797180 to discuss your options or email [email protected].

Who teaches your art courses?

Our courses are led by practising artists – including Jill Eisele, Alice Mumford, Iona Sanders and Neil Canning – all with extensive knowledge of their chosen subjects and materials. Each tutor brings their own artistic experience, working methods and approach to teaching, giving students the opportunity to experience a wide range of ideas and techniques.

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 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


In Person Courses

What do I need to bring?

You don’t need to bring anything with you unless we specify beforehand. All materials, aprons and tools are provided, however some people do like to bring along their favourite set of brushes or sketchbooks.

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.

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]

Choosing an Art Course

Do you run life drawing classes in St Ives?

Yes. We hold regular life drawing sessions in St Ives, including Thursday evening and Saturday morning classes. These welcoming, tutored sessions are open to a range of experience levels and provide an opportunity to practise drawing from a life model. Our life drawing sessions are held just a 5 minute walk from our studios at The Island Centre.

Do you offer art courses for adults?

Yes. We run art classes and courses for adults throughout the year, from accessible introductory workshops to more intensive courses for people looking to deepen their creative practice.

What types of painting can I learn?

Our courses cover a wide range of approaches, including oil painting, acrylic painting, watercolour, gouache, landscape painting, still life, portraiture and abstraction. We also offer courses exploring colour, composition, mark-making and creative confidence.

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