Service Description

In this two-day beginner linocut printmaking workshop with printmaker Mirka Hokkanen, students will be guided into the world of relief printing. Students will be using tools to carve designs into linoleum, rolling ink onto the raised surface, and pressing it onto paper to create bold graphic designs. Day 1: We’ll learn the basic tools and techniques for making linocuts and look at a sampling of varied relief prints for inspiration. Students will start with a small sampler block, proof it, and then start working on their first linocut. Day 2: Students will continue to work on their blocks. We will learn how to set a block on a press, registration, inking, and troubleshooting when printing. You will also be learn tips on how to print on different kinds of presses, by hand, and alternative materials to use. Students should not expect to print large numbers of prints during class, but everyone will get press time to proof and practice printing. Relief prints are versatile form of printmaking, taking up very little space and minimal equipment, perfect for a home studio. Students will leave the workshop with the skills to create their prints, their carved block and a set of prints that they have printed. All supplies are included. Participants may want to bring a sketchbook if they have one. This workshop is designed for participants 14 years old and up. About the instructor: Mirka Hokkanen is a Finnish-American freelance illustrator, author, and printmaker. She moved to the U.S. in 1998 to attend Rockford College in Illinois (BFA 2002). She then received both Master of Arts (2004) and Master of Fine Arts (2006) degrees in printmaking from University of Dallas, TX. As a military spouse and almost a dozen moves into her career, Mirka has had the opportunity to be an active part in many art communities, teaching, speaking, and organizing events. Her nature-themed art has won awards and been shown in galleries around the world. She currently sits on the board of the Wood Engravers Network and is the Regional Advisor for the Society of Children's Books Writers and Illustrators Maryland chapter.