History of Printmaking and the Printed Image Short Course

Course description

This course is an introduction to the history of the printed image, covering the early development of woodcut and engraving, commercial compromises and the development of printed images, etchings and mezzotints in the 17th century, mass-production, aquatints and the picturesque, the demise of engraving, lithography and direct mark printmaking, the development of wood-engraving for illustration, the influence of Japanese woodcuts, the potential offered by screen-print, monoprint and collagraph, and the role of the handmade print in the digital world.

This course will be lecture based, with handling sessions, looking at printed material and tools. There may also be a visit to Central Saint Martins own printing workshop and a visit to the British Library.

 Who should take this course?

Students interested in furthering their understanding of the development of western art beyond paintings.

Course Outcomes

An understanding of the relationship between printmaking and other art media, and the relationship between the development of printed images/printmaking and technology, commerce, aesthetics and communication systems.

Entry requirements: Students should have an outline knowledge of western art, but no specialist knowledge of printmaking is required. Practising printmakers will find ideas which may be useful.

Level: All Levels

Please note: This course is for students aged 18 and older

Clear, easy to understand lessons: 

• Our tutors will explain things in easy to understand, accessible English. If they need to use any special terminology they will make sure they explain what they mean. 
• New methods will be shown to students through live demonstrations, in a way that’s crystal clear and easy to understand. 

Experience life on campus 

• Network and share ideas with students from across the globe 
• Access the technology and materials relevant to your discipline 
• Shop in our college shops for any materials you might need 
• Ask questions of your tutor in real time 
• Receive feedback and critique on your assignments 
• Experience the many sights of London on your down time 

A certificate of completion: 

• You've put the work in so we want to make sure you have something to show for it! 
• As long as you attend a minimum of 80% of your classes, we will provide you with a certificate of attendance. 
• We always recommend you attend all of the classes so that you get the most out of the experience! 
• Certificates are great to complement your cv.