Fuelled by bruschetta, tiffin, fizz and mint tea, this group of 7 novice printers set about designing and carving their own lino prints!

A quiet night it was not, it was a lively evening that included some very funny conversations and ideas were flowing, resulting in a very productive and extremely creative night.

At the start of the night more than one lady said that they couldn’t draw; looking at the images of the final prints, there’s not one that would look out of place hung proudly in a frame.

Mark making is an important aspect of printmaking, there’s a whole range of different marks used to create these prints and its these marks that give each print their own style, character & strength as a finished piece of art.

Have a closer look at the prints below, you’ll be amazed at the amount of different marks used in each print.

A great example of positive v negative (light and dark) space, balanced by the scrattchy line work in the seed head.

Another great example of posive / negative balance. Flecks left around the eyes give the impression of soft feathers. Rough marks around the edge leave a perfect naive framework.

Strong, bold strokes indicate the skyline and the rays. small flecks add to the choppy sea.

The simplicity of this motif is so striking.

Beautiful line work in the background shouldn’t be underestimated. By making the most of this often forgotten area, Mary has given a powerful indication of moving water surounding the her turtle.

Attention to detail in the direction of marks made when clearing the background give an impression of grasses.