Do Now: Introduction to the Printmaking
Printmaking is an art process where an image is created on one surface (a plate or block) and then transferred onto another surface, usually paper.
Key features:
One image can be printed multiple times
Each print can still be slightly different
Artists experiment with line, shape, form, texture, and colour
Relief printmaking is a printmaking process where the raised (relief) areas of a surface are inked and printed, while the cut-away areas do not print.
Here’s the simple way to think about it:
You carve or cut away parts of a surface
The raised parts are rolled with ink
Paper is pressed on top
The ink transfers from the raised areas onto the paper
Common relief printmaking materials:
Styrofoam / foam plates
Lino (linoleum)
Wood (woodcut)
Examples of relief printmaking:
Woodcut prints
Linocut prints
Styrofoam prints
Key idea:
What you don’t cut is what prints.
In this project, students will explore printmaking through experimentation and research.
You will work with styrofoam, gelli plate, and lino printmaking techniques, focusing on how artists use line, shape, form, and texture (Elements of Art).
Students will research the Australian artist Margaret Preston and develop idea sketches before creating prints. Throughout the project, you are expected to experiment, annotate your process, and record your ideas and reflections in your sketchbook.
This project emphasises exploration, creative thinking, and process, with the sketchbook forming an essential part of the assessment.
Styrofoam Printmaking
Gelli Plate Printmaking
Lino Printmaking
Margaret Preston Research page
Your idea sketches, Print experiments and annotations in your sketchbook
WK 1: Introduction & Styrofoam Printmaking
Wk 2: Artist Research (Margaret Preston)
WK 3: Gelli Plate Printmaking
Wk 4: Design Development & Refinement
Wk 5-7 Lino Printmaking
Wk 7 Reflection and exhibit