Fun with Fungi, a linocut workshop

Join me, local artist Chiara Mensa, for a creative evening of linocut printmaking inspired by beautiful and whimsical mushroom forms!

No previous experience is required, making this a great opportunity to try linocut for the first time or dust off your carving tools after a long break in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. The group size will be kept small, with a maximum of 8-10 participants to allow you to interact directly with me and get the most out of the workshop experience.

While props, template drawings and reference books will be available during the event to inspire you to sketch your design, feel free to bring any personal sketch or reference image you would like to use.

All materials and tools will be provided, along with an apron to protect your clothes. All you need to do is bring yourself, your creativity and the willingness to get your fingers inky!

This hands-on creative workshop is perfect for beginners who want to get a taster for linocut printmaking. During our 3.5 hours together, you will sketch, carve and print your very own fungi-inspired linocut print, ready to be framed or gifted.

At the end of the event, you can take your lino block home to continue practising and printing.

What you'll learn and do
— Mark-making, linocutting and hand printing 101;
— Sketch your design on paper and transfer it onto lino;
— Carve the lino block using different size tools;
— Ink up your block with quality oil-based relief printmaking inks;
— Hand print your block on acid-free paper for long-lasting results;

NOTE: While there will be time and materials available to sketch at the start of the workshop, you can prepare your design in advance. If you do decide to sketch ahead of time, please ensure that your design fits within an A6 border (105x148mm) as that is the size of the lino block you'll be given.

What you'll get
— Access to professional-quality premium materials;
— A copy (or two!) of your very own original lino print;
— Your carved lino block which can be reused to create more prints;
— A chance to ask me any questions you might have about the process or materials and get bespoke advice on your piece;
— A carrier bag and upcycled cardboard sleeve to safely take your prints home with you;

Sizing & Materials
— A6 (10.5cm x 14.8cm) traditional battleship grey lino block to carve your design.
— A5-sized paper (14.8cm x 21cm) to print your block using a single ink colour (different colours available depending on the theme, choice among 2-3 inks).
These sizes will allow you to finish your piece, make one or two copies of your design, and still have time to pack up at the end of the event.

Your Host
Run by Bristol-based artist Chiara Mensa; follow @chiaramensaart for linocut tips, original prints and updates

Entry requirements
Adults-only workshop, 16+; 14-17-year-olds can join accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who will be responsible for them.

When
6PM-9.30PM; you are encouraged to arrive 5 minutes before the scheduled start time to ensure a prompt start.

Where
L'Étoile Studio, 18 West St, Bristol BS2 0BH. 15-20 minutes walk from Temple Meads Station and Central Bus Station.

Parking
On-street parking is available (and FREE after 5pm!) or use parking centres nearby.

Accessibility
The space is accessible to wheelchair users (no steps), however, it is rather compact and, unfortunately, it does not have an accessible toilet.

Food & drinks
BYO is okay for this venue. Also, light refreshments (tea, coffee, snacks) will be provided.

Host or Publisher Chiara Mensa — Prints & design