This course provides an introduction to the techniques and theories central to the practice of relief printmaking and intaglio printmaking. Initially it provides students with a short overview of both traditional and contemporary relief and intaglio printing processes, and printing practices. Following this more theoretical opening, the majority of the course will then be dedicated to the hands-on exploration of the limitless applications and materials of relief printing, their various forms and applications, to develop their knowledge and understanding of the uniqueness of this creative field of practice.

Relief printing – as represented for example in woodcut prints – is probably the oldest printing technique of all, having been in use for several millennia throughout many different regions and cultures. It is conceptually and technically simple, yet due to many different available materials, tools and carving techniques this medium is very versatile. 

In relief printing some parts of a given matrix are removed to form an image. Ink is applied to the remaining surface areas, and from there directly transferred onto the destination medium.

Intaglio printing - essentially the opposite of relief printing Intaglio printmaking is usually done on metal plates where incisions are made on the surface of the plate to create an image. Incisions may either be made by etching, engraving, aquatinting and drypoint techniques where a fine level of detail and tonal range can be achieved. The incised line in the plate holds ink while the surface is wiped clean; subsequently the printed medium – commonly paper – is pressed into the plate through an etching press and the inked line transfers.

Following a brief theoretical introduction on the rich history and uses of intaglio printmaking, techniques of hard ground and soft ground etching are demonstrated, which students may then apply to a variety of personal projects.