Workshop cost: $2,250.
Level of experience: open to students of all levels
Material fee: tbd, there will be a small materials and field trip fee
Dates to remember:
Registration: Open now
Booking forms and fee must be received by: 21st June 2027
Final payment due: 21st August 2027
Arrival: 21st September 2027
Departure: 29th September 2027
Class: 22nd - 28th September 2027
In this printmaking workshop, artists will explore and utilize various print processes, including the following:
• Carborundum prints: using silicon carbide grit to make rich tonal plates and prints.
• Encaustic collograph: building printing plates from wax, cardboard, and acrylic.
• Drypoint: exploring various ways of markmaking on printing plates.
• Building and printing plates made from cardboard and other found surfaces.
• Chine Colle: applying delicate Asian papers to support papers using the press.
• Monoprinting using water-based media.
• Viscosity printing used to create unique color relationships.
• Printing multi-plate images with an emphasis on color.
Overall, this workshop aims to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience in printmaking (both experimental and traditional), allowing artists to explore processes while also delving into the rich cultural and natural landscape of County Mayo, Ireland.
The combination of technical instruction, creative exercises, inspiration from Irish heritage, and access to a diverse collection of prints at the Ballinglen Museum of Art offers a unique and enriching experience for participants.
By expanding printmaking practices and encouraging artists to express their personal vision, this workshop aims to push boundaries, spark new ideas, and foster a deeper connection to the creative process. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced printmaker, this workshop offers a supportive and dynamic environment where artists can explore, learn, and grow in their practice.
Local field trips are planned for the class to explore the natural and cultural environment of County Mayo.
A fun and adventurous group of ten artists joined Jeff Hirst for Expanded Approaches Towards Printmaking, held September 11–19 2026 at the Ballinglen Arts Foundation. Participants explored a range of processes, including drypoint, monotype, carborundum, encaustic collagraph, and chine collé, creating a diverse body of work that reflected each artist’s personal vision. The class embraced an experimental spirit, combining imagery, materials, and processes in unexpected ways. There was plenty of exploration, creative energy, and a willingness to take chances, making for an exciting week of printmaking and a terrific group dynamic. The class also took a daylong field trip around North Mayo, visiting the ancient Neolithic site of Céide Fields, the dramatic cliffs of Benwee Head, and the striking coastal landscape of Downpatrick Head. It was a wonderful opportunity to experience the region’s rich history and extraordinary landscape alongside the studio work.
All other queries, please contact Úna Forde on, unaforde.baf@gmail.com.
