Day course with Helen Kenny
Friday 7 October 2022, 9.30am–4pm

Book a space on the course via Eventbrite here.

This one-day introductory workshop uses a direct printmaking process to explore art making through texture, mark-making and colour.

Jelly plate printing is a technique used to create monoprints without the need for a printing press. The speed of the jelly process creates a freedom, allowing exploration and experimentation to take place. The soft, reusable printing plate is ideal for transferring detailed textures from materials such as leaves, textured fabrics and papers. It is also possible to paint directly onto the plate, creating unique gestural or painterly marks. By printing multiple layers of different texture, form and colour, it is possible to build images rich in subtlety and depth.

The morning session will focus on experimentation and discovery. This will include an initial demonstration of the process, sourcing materials for mark-making from the local environment, exploring the potential of the jelly plate process and trying out different techniques and effects.

After lunch we will continue to deepen understanding of techniques, especially the use of multiple, coloured layers, to start to develop more considered pieces.

No previous experience is required to access this workshop. It is suitable for those with no artistic background as well as practicing artists interested in a new technique.

Safety Notes: This workshop involves working with inks. Wear clothes suitable for messy work.

Materials: All materials are provided as part of your course fee. Materials will be sustainable including recycled paper, natural/repurposed materials, reusable/biodegradable printing plates and water-based ink.

Format: One day introductory course 9.30am–4pm with a break for lunch.

Lunch: Please bring your own packed lunch and enjoy the grounds of Wysing for a picnic during the break. Tea, coffee and water will be available throughout the day.

Fees: £100 per person.

Concession prices are available to book on Eventbrite for those who need it, with options of:

- £75 (25% discount)
- £50 (50% discount)

Please note: Wysing is a not-for-profit organisation.

As a registered charity, we are committed to supporting artists and ticket sales help to support our charity mission. We ask you to choose the ticket you can afford and leave it to your discretion. Please keep in mind that there are people who will genuinely need the concession tickets and we have a limited number of those to offer.

Transport: We have ample parking on site. Public bus services run hourly from Cambridge (No. 18 from Drummer Street) to Bourn Village Monday to Saturday. Wysing is a 15-minute walk from Bourn, but please note this is along a busy road. Visit our website here for more transport information.

Accessibility: This course uses low impact techniques, suitable for those with limited physical movement or strength. Free companion tickets are available for those who need one - please email us on info@wysingartscentre.org to book one. Please get in touch with us to let us know if there is something we can do to enable you to participate in our events by emailing us on info@wysingartscentre.org.

Tutor Biography: Helen studied at the Ruskin School of Fine Art and Drawing, Oxford University, receiving a joint printmaking/sculpture degree in 1991. Subsequently she worked full time as an artist, exhibiting widely in the UK, Germany and Luxembourg both in galleries and museums.

In 2000 she increased the teaching aspect of her practice, which is frequently present in her work as workshops and lectures integral to exhibitions. Since 2015, Helen’s primary focus returned to the development of her own fine art practice. Helen’s work is held in private collections across Europe.