Premier Graphics
& Animation
Work with us
Menu
Studio
OverviewServicesCapabilitiesThe Collection
Institute
OverviewProgrammesCourse libraryHow we teachCareersGuidesFor universities
Journal About Contact Work with us
Fine Arts · MS elective · 3 credit hours · 16 sessions

Alternative Printmaking Techniques

This course explores the “Kitchen Sink” approach to printmaking, focusing on non-toxic and experimental processes. Students will learn techniques that do not require heavy presses or dangerous acids. The curriculum covers Cyanotypes (Sun Prints), Kitchen Lithography (using Cola and Foil), Gelatin Plate Monoprinting, and Tetra-Pak Etching, encouraging a DIY aesthetic and sustainable studio practices.

§ 01 By the end you can
  1. Master "Cyanotype" printing: Coating paper and exposing with UV light
  2. Execute "Kitchen Lithography": Using household materials (Cola/Oil) to print
  3. Create "Gelli Plate" Monoprints: Layering texture and stencils without a press
  4. Explore "Tetra-Pak Drypoint": Recycling packaging into intaglio plates
  5. Combine techniques: Layering alternative processes for complex imagery
§ 02 Sixteen sessions

The whole semester.

  1. 01Introduction to Alt-Process: History & Safety
  2. 02Cyanotype I: Mixing Chemistry & Coating
  3. 03Cyanotype II: Photograms & Negatives
  4. 04Cyanotype III: Toning (Tea/Coffee)
  5. 05Gelli Plate I: Texture & Found Objects
  6. 06Gelli Plate II: Image Transfer
  7. 07Gelli Plate III: Registration & Layers
  8. 08 · MidtermMidterm Examination
  9. 09Kitchen Lithography I: The Chemistry of Cola
  10. 10Kitchen Lithography II: Inking & Printing
  11. 11Tetra-Pak Drypoint: Recycled Intaglio
  12. 12Trace Monotype: Drawing Ink
  13. 13Pochoir: Stencil Printing
  14. 14Image Transfer: Solvent & Acrylic methods
  15. 15Book Arts: Binding the Prints
  16. 16Final Project: The Mixed-Process Artist Book

Midterm around session 8. Final project briefed at session 8 or 9 and developed in stages until the juries.

§ 03 Final project

Final Project: The Mixed-Process Artist Book

How it’s judged

Recommended reading
  1. Gelli Plate Printing by Joan Bess
  2. Cyanotype: The Blueprint in Contemporary Practice by Christina Z. Anderson
  3. Printmaking Unleashed by Traci Bautista
  4. Kitchen Lithography: Hand Printing at Home by Émilie Aizier
  5. Low-Tech Print by Caspar Williamson
More in Fine Arts
Abstract & Impressionist PaintingThis course explores Impressionist and Abstract painting traditions through color, gesture, texture, light, and expressive mark-making.
Advanced Cloth Figure PaintingDrawing the nude is a challenge; dressing it is an art form. This advanced course focuses on the complex relationship between the human form and drapery.
Advanced Figure DrawingThis course advances observational and anatomical figure drawing skills. Students study complex poses, skeletal and muscular structure, dynamic movement, foreshortening, expressive mark-making, and refined rendering to develop mastery in depicting the human form.
Advanced Landscape PaintingThe landscape is a challenge of light, atmosphere, and vastness. This advanced course moves beyond the "Blue Sky, Green Grass" formula.
Advanced MaterialsIn the world of 3D, a model is only as good as its surface. This course explores "Look Development" (LookDev) and the creation of photorealistic digital materials.
Advanced Mold Making TechniquesThis technical course is the bridge between a unique sculpture and mass production. Students will explore the science of replication, learning to create complex molds for sculpture, product design, and prototyping.