Using Etching Presses for Relief
Not long ago I became the very happy of owner of an A1 Gunning press – installed by the crack team Jenny and Nathan. There’s me, photographed in my studio with my press whom I call Dolly. She’s the good looking one.
The Gunning team offered invaluable support and set me up on the day – a service I heartily recommend. They continued to offer superb aftersales advice. I also go to Jenny and the excellent shop for lino supplies.
I’ve only recently established Skirrid Print Studio as a public space. I was inspired to create a working studio when I moved to our new home in Longtown, Herefordshire, as our stone-built farmhouse had an annexe crying out for renovation. I opened the doors to the public on June 14th 2019.
I’m not sure if it’s the novelty factor but I’ve already taught 8 linocut craft courses with more bookings in the diary. (Offering mainly family printmaking workshops as well and some 2:1 and 1:1 sessions.) I decided that I would aim to focus on the family and kids market, so that I wasn’t pilfering custom from other wonderful printmaking teachers in the area. And I can’t offer teaching to large groups as my space is a bit on the cosy side.
You can see from this lovely photo of Tilly, aged 5, that it’s already been a huge success. The recently realised that my new job is all about making people happy. What a blessing.
I do sell some prints from my studio, but also to 2 retailers and online at Etsy – my shop is still very much a work in progress with lots of republishing to do, which will always be the way if you want to keep it fresh.
I’ve had such a steep learning curve (apart from being a self taught artist!) – how to :
* give my prints a professional appearance for sale
* how to market craft courses as well as sell work
* how to teach (!)
* how to optimise social media and searchability (endless hours of screenwork I’m afraid)
Finally I’m participating in H-Art (my first county-wide open studio) with The Print Shed in Madley. You’re warmly invited to the launch party on 4 September from 6.30pm – if you happen to be in the area. 🙂
Kind wishes and thanks to Jenny and the team for all their brilliant work. They’re inspirational.
Happy printing to you all.
Helen Arthur
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