Explore the process of translating imagery into the dynamic mark-making intrinsic to the medium of woodblock printmaking and collage. We embark on combining elements of woodblock printmaking, drawing, cut paper, and other collage materials to produce complex and compelling imagery. Students add to their practice with a whole new toolbox of methods as well as new conceptual approaches to the woodblock medium. While the primary tenets of traditional block printing are covered, printmaking operates as a means to facilitate the student’s concept. Students gain knowledge of the fundamentals of woodblock printmaking: carving, reproduction, registration, inking, etc. and various collage applications to produce a multilayered surface.

Explore the exciting process of copper plate intaglio through the creation of small-scale matrices to depict a narrative. Students are introduced to various etching processes, chine colle, jewelry techniques to shape plates, and hand painting methods. Printing techniques specific to shaped plate copper are practiced, introducing new formats for considering the borders of images. Participants produce a small suite of unique prints from plates that emboss the paper in dynamic ways, and tell a story.

This immersive workshop invites participants to delve into the art of handmade papermaking and the alternative photographic process of cyanotype. Participants explore the natural world as a source of both materials and inspiration, emphasizing the inherently place-based nature of these techniques. The first part of the workshop focuses on collecting and processing local plant materials, including invasive species, to create handmade paper. Participants learn essential papermaking techniques, such as fiber preparation, pulping, sheet formation, and drying, while discovering which plants are best suited for papermaking. In the second phase, participants investigate photographic imagery through the lens of place and connection. Using cyanotype—a historic photographic process known for its vivid blue tones—participants design image-based compositions that integrate seamlessly with their handmade paper. By merging organic materials with photographic imagery, the workshop creates a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of craft, nature, and storytelling. Ideal for artists and creatives interested in sustainable practices, alternative photography, and the expressive potential of handmade paper, this workshop fosters innovation and a deep appreciation for place-based artmaking.

Explore the dynamic intersection of screen printing and collage through unhinged silkscreens, layered imagery, and texture. Participants begin by creating bold screen printed works using hand-drawn or photo-based methods. Prints are then transformed through cutting, tearing, and pasting onto new substrates such as paper, vinyl, or found materials. This hands-on workshop welcomes all skill levels and emphasizes intuitive play, composition, and storytelling through composition and negative space. Demonstrations, open studio time, group critique, and one-on-one guidance support students in developing unique works that merge screen print and collage into vibrant hybrid artworks.

This five-day course investigates the possibilities of handmade paper. Focusing on techniques working with cotton fiber of various lengths, students learn basic sheet forming and its science and history, two-dimensional applications of additive wet paper pulp techniques, developing layered imagery through cut stencils and hand applied pulp, blowout techniques, and pigmenting. Students learn to apply this knowledge in combination with traditional printmaking techniques, such as combining wet paper pulp imagery with watercolor monoprints. Students also learn basic laminate casting potentials.

Explore a playful approach to making layered, hand-pulled monoprints through this fun, experimental workshop. We learn various ways to bring technology into our art-making practice, using the laser cutter as a flexible tool throughout the process. We discover how to turn drawings into laser-cut paper stencils, which we then use both in the printing process and as collage elements. We conclude by cutting our plexi plates into jigsaw-style pieces for more printing options. Our goals are to increase skills, exchange ideas, and expand our creative practices.

This versatile and dynamic monoprint workshop utilizes both water-based and oil-based media, printing from collagraph plates and stencils. Participants create textured plates by building up varied surfaces with acrylic mediums and more traditional, drypoint Plexiglas plates, combined with collage materials and Duralar stencil shapes. These inspiring techniques work well with both abstract and representational imagery, adding new methods and visual effects to the printmaking practice. Each student is guided individually by the instructor, and offers group demos daily.

Master Class In this two-week workshop, advanced printmakers explore direct mark-making on ball-grained aluminum plates as well as photographic and hand-drawn imagery with film positives on pre-sensitized photo plates. Developing an understanding of efficient methods for processing and printing are the foundation to producing consistent lithographic editions. Prior background in lithography or extensive work in other printmaking media will serve as the basis for image preparation, plate processing and printing techniques. This workshop does not require that students be proficient in lithography, but they must have significant experience in the field of printmaking.

Anderson Ranch’s January Studio Sessions provide artists the opportunity to work on independent projects while receiving mentoring and critique sessions with Anderson Ranch artistic staff. Each participant receives an assigned studio space, orientation and access to equipment, as well as some morning group demonstrations and / or critiques. This program affords artists the experience enjoyed by national and international artists who access our state-of-the-art studios. Participants may expand their practices, take artistic risks, try new media or complete works for exhibition. *Studios are open 24 hours a day with limited use of equipment due to safety requirements. IMPORTANT DETAILS: Students will be responsible for all material costs associated with their projects. Participants will have access to the studios on weekends throughout this four-week program (with the exception of certain equipment due to safety constraints.) Private dorm rooms are available at Anderson Ranch for one, two, three, or four weeks for an additional fee; click here to view January 2027 lodging options. TO APPLY: Applicants must submit project proposals or portfolios for approval. Contact Liz Ferrill to apply: [email protected]