Sharing the art of printmaking

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

The recent retrospective exhibition celebrating 45 years of printmaking in Gisborne attracted large numbers to Tairāwhiti Museum.

The Gisborne Printmakers Group was established by the late Penny Ormerod in 1976 and they have worked together for one day a month ever since.

Several inquiries were made about learning the techniques that were shown in the 108 works on display.

Founding members Jean Johnston and Norman Maclean are offering a one-day workshop as an introductory course for people interested. It will be held on Saturday, February 12 at Lysnar House, from 9.30am to 4pm.

Off-set relief printmaking using found objects and some of the intaglio processes included in dry-point and zinc plate etching will be demonstrated.

The cost is $10 per day, to cover inks, solvents, paper and card.

Participants will gain insights into the techniques involved and see the potential that lies in experimentation. Participants are advised to wear old clothes and bring an apron or shirt to avoid getting ink-stained. As all printmakers know, it is a messy business and cannot be conducted in gear that must stay clean.

Something that is never in over supply is rags so any contributions of these will be very welcome.

As space is limited it is necessary to register interest by calling either Jean on 027 868 8606 or Norman on 867 3423 or 021 0220 5074.