In this workshop, participants will learn an alternative approach to relief printmaking utilizing a press-less printing method while discovering a repetitive process that will calm the mind and enrich a creative outlet. You will explore and develop your own motifs, either from imagination or in reference of cultural narratives. Learn to work with alternative materials and techniques to design, transfer, carve, register, print, and clean up. You will engage in a studio practice that will emphasize textile printing and pattern making.
There will be opportunity to explore and experiment as a way to develop a series of design networks. The motifs will be first test printed on cotton rag paper and once further developed, the patterns may then be printed onto fabric (Participants are welcome to bring personal garments and pre-washed fabrics to be printed on). We will be using traditional printmaking inks and learn the basics of preparing ink and charging brayers for inking of the blocks - as well as how to efficiently clean up/conserve materials as a way to learn proper printmaking etiquette.
*participants may bring fabrics from home that may consist of pillow cases, curtains, table runners, tote bag or clothing.
workshop itinerary:
Introduction: Demo on motif design, drawing, and transferring image onto blocks
begin the brainstorming and drawing session of motifs
demo on block carving and proofing of carved design
develop pattern networks of motif designs on paper
demo on mixing ink and charging brayers
begin printing and developing color patterns on paper before moving onto fabric
experimentation in materials and printing
organize printed materials for safe transportation
$30 material fee payable to instructor on the day of workshop.
This class is for: Fine Artists, Designers and creative hobbyists of any skill level
Materials included:
Newsprint paper
cotton rag paper
1 yd of cotton muslin fabric
tracing paper
6 relief blocks for carving:
2 -1 inch x 1 inch
2 - 2 inch x 2 inch2 - 3 inch x 3 inch
Materials provided for use
drawing pencils
carving tool and tips
xacto blade
cutting mat
ruler
safewash oil-based ink
spatulas
gloves
plexiglass
brayers
tape
paper towels
cleaning suppliesreference materials/books
*you are welcome to bring personal source materials for referencing
ARTIST BIO
Dusty Guerra is a Xicano artist, printmaker, and educator based in Southern California. As a first generation artist, Guerra explores family heritage and traditions to further investigate the origins of his Mexicanidad. Guerra’s art practice is managing the creation of a non-verbal, spiritual language of symbols and motifs rooted in native belief systems and histories of migration. He holds a BFA in Traditional Printmaking and has been teaching printmaking to underserved communities in Los Angeles for the past 6 years.
Workshop is $150 members, $165 non-members, plus $30 materials fee payable to the instructor the day of the class.
