Learn linocut on the 'cut'
FRIENDS of the Cromford Canal's heritage narrowboat Birdswood are hosting a printmaking workshop with celebrated canal artist and printmaker Eric Gaskell, writes Nic Barfield.
The day will start on Friday 5th May with a two to three hours cruise to gather inspiration and reference material.
Sketching session
After a sketching session, participants will look at how to draw for print and how to translate their sketches into a single colour linocut. Guided by Eric, you'll think about how small a mark can you make—does that need to be white—could the black and white balance work better?
In the afternoon we'll moor up back at Cromford Wharf to cut and print small linocuts, and you will take away your own linocut print plus the basic knowledge to create more!
Tools and materials provided
It doesn't matter if you're an absolute beginner, improver or intermediate—as long as you can sketch your ideas. Tools and materials are provided but bring your own sketching equipment and linocut tools if you like.
Cost for the day is £65 including drinks and light refreshments. The workshop will run from 10.30am to 4pm. Bring a packed lunch or avail yourself of Wheatcrofts Cafe at Cromford Wharf!
Limited to eight
The workshop is limited to eight participants and places are booking fast. A £30 deposit will reserve a place until Friday 7th April, when the full balance is payable. Please email
Building on the success of this new creative initiative, Birdswood will become a floating studio for further arts events such as watercolour and landscape painting later in 2017. Arts professionals with links to waterways or industrial heritage are invited to contact the Birdswood team if they would like to be considered as workshop leaders for future events.