Galentine's Day — BOTANICAL Linocut Workshop

Join me, local artist Chiara Mensa, for a 3-hour evening session of linocut printmaking inspired by beautiful botanical 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 a perfect activity to celebrate Galentine's Day with your girlfriends (or Valentine's Day with your partner).

It is designed for beginners who want to get a taster for linocut printmaking. During our three hours together, you will sketch, carve and print your very own botanical-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;

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 carrier bag and pre-loved cardboard sleeve to safely take your prints home with you;
— A chance to ask me any questions you might have about the process or materials and get bespoke advice on your piece;

Sizing & Materials
— A6 (10.5cm x 14.8cm) traditional lino block to carve your design.
— A5 (14.8cm x 21cm) paper to print your block using a single ink colour.
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
6.30PM-9.30PM; you are encouraged to arrive 5 minutes before the scheduled start time to ensure a prompt start.

Where
The Victoria Park Gastropub, 66 Raymend Rd, Bristol BS3 4QW. Nestled in the heart of Bedminster, the pub is an 8-minute walk from Bedminster train station and a 25-minute walk from Temple Meads Station.

Parking
On-street parking only.

Food & drinks
The Victoria Park pub has a wonderful selection of beers on tap, drinks and delicious food options (visit their website for full menu details) — sorry, no BYO for this venue!

Host or Publisher Chiara Mensa — Prints & design