A4399 - Explore: printmaking – build and experiment with processes

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Start Date: 24/09/2026      End Date: 26/11/2026        Start Time: 14:00      End Time: 16:30        Hours per Week: 2.50      No of Weeks: 9
Fees:      £180.00 (tuition)     £316.00 (overseas)     £75.00 (concessionary)
Tutor: Anna Dyke        No of Places: FULL - click to check
Shadwell Centre

Course Overview

Course Overview
You will work with processes such as monoprint, relief (linocut/woodcut), collagraph, and drypoint, using them as a starting point to test, combine, and discover new ways of working. You will experiment with layering, colour, texture, and repetition, and begin to work in a more open and flexible way.
You may also combine print with drawing, collage, or painting, exploring how different materials and processes interact. The focus is on trying things out, learning through experimentation, and building confidence in your decision making.
Regular group discussion and informal critique will support your learning, helping you reflect on your work, share ideas, and learn from others. You will be encouraged to think about what worked, what didn’t, and what you might develop next.
This course prepares you to progress to further Explore courses where you will develop more sustained work and a clearer personal direction.

What will you learn and be able to do?

What will you learn and be able to do?
* Explore a range of printmaking techniques through experimentation
* Combine simple processes to create varied outcomes
* Experiment with layering, colour, and texture
* Develop ideas through testing, reworking, and repetition
* Reflect on your work through discussion and critique
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Entry requirements

Entry requirements
No previous experience is required. The course is suitable for anyone with an interest in exploring creative ideas through printmaking. Returning students are welcome on the course and they will be encouraged to explore personal projects and develop their own creative style.
Prosp User 8

Equipment required

Equipment required
Most materials and tools will be provided. Learners may wish to bring their
own drawing and printmaking tools (or start to purchase their own set),
along with a sketchbook or notebook for collecting ideas, drawings and found imagery. Camera phones are useful for recording demonstrations and/ or documenting processes, but not essential.
Prosp User 9

How will you know you are making progress?

How will you know you are making progress?
You will have an ‘Individual Learning Plan’ where the course learning outcomes are shown and
where you can set individual learning goals and monitor your own progress against these.
You will need to evaluate your own progress and manage your time.
Your tutor will give ongoing feedback and will keep you informed of your progress.
Prosp User 12
At the beginning of the course an initial assessment takes place to identify your level of
experience knowledge or current skills.
The tutor will carry out informal assessments to check your understanding, there is no exam.
You will complete a self-assessment at the beginning, middle and end of the course.
Your tutor will let you know how you are getting on throughout the course to you will help you
work to your full potential.
At the end of the course you will receive written feedback.
Prosp User 11

Progress opportunities - your next steps

Progress opportunities - your next steps
This course prepares you to progress to further Explore courses where you will develop more sustained work and a clearer personal direction. Please see our website 'Idea Store - Learning' for further information on a range of Visual Arts courses or speak with your tutor. Your tutor will support you in researching these and other courses outside of Idea Store Learning.
Prosp User 10

Other info

Other info
Accessibility Notice
Please note before enrolling in print courses that the studio is located at the top of the building and is not accessible by lift. Access requires using a staircase of 98 steps. As a result, the print studio may not be suitable for individuals with mobility difficulties. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your access needs, please get in touch—we’re happy to advise where we can.
Please also note: We have high expectations regarding attendance and punctuality. We expect 100% attendance for all scheduled sessions and that you do so punctually and are ready to start learning at the start of the class.
We acknowledge the rare occasions when that will not be possible, please inform us before the class by emailing ideastoreadmin@towerhamlets.gov.uk.
Prosp User 13

Extra Support

Extra Support
If you have declared a learning difficulty, disability or support need whilst enrolling and you require support/assistance in class or to complete your course, please discuss your needs with your tutor at the first lesson.
If you intend to take an examination and feel you have an additional learning need or special requirements, you must declare them to your tutor within the first 2 weeks of your course.
If you are studying in an online group, then you can arrange a one-to-one online discussion with your tutor, after the session, or by email.
Where we aim to make reasonable adjustments to support our learners, please note we are unable to provide any type of in class or in person support if your course takes place online.
Prosp User 14