Join us for an immersive hands-on workshop where you’ll explore the fascinating world of Intaglio printmaking, with a special focus on Drypoint technique. Intaglio, one of the oldest printmaking methods, involves incising or etching an image into a surface (typically a metal plate) to create prints. Drypoint, a technique within the Intaglio family, is known for its rich, expressive lines and textures, created by directly scratching into the plate with a sharp tool.
Date: Saturday, 27 September 2025
Time: 9:00 – 12:30 (3.5 hours)
Place: The Deckle Edge @ 13 Brickfield Road, Salt River
Workshops space limited booking essential
You will also receive a 10% Deckle shopping coupon for the day of the workshop
Recommended age: All welcome from 12 years and up.
What you will learn:
• Introduction to Intaglio Printmaking:
An overview of intaglio processes and materials, with a focus on drypoint’s role within this print family. You’ll learn about the history of the technique and its place in contemporary art.
• Drypoint Technique:
You will learn how to create marks directly on an acrylic plate using a sharp tool. This technique produces rich, textured lines that result in deep, expressive impressions on paper. We’ll explore how to build up layers of marks and experiment with different levels of pressure to achieve varied results.
• Printing Process:
You’ll be guided through the steps of inking and wiping your plate, preparing it for the printing press, and pulling prints. The process will reveal the distinctive characteristics of the drypoint technique, from its velvety blacks to its spontaneous, almost sculptural quality.
• Experimentation and Expression:
The beauty of drypoint lies in its ability to capture both precise detail and spontaneous, expressive marks. In this workshop, we encourage participants to explore and experiment, whether that means refining fine lines or embracing the unpredictable, rougher textures that come with the technique.
• Editioning and Paper Handling:
You will learn how to edition your prints, ensuring that each piece is correctly signed and numbered. Tips for selecting and preparing paper will also be shared, so you can make sure your prints shine with the best materials.
Materials Provided:
• Drypoint plates (acrylic)
• Various drypoint tools for mark-making
• Printing inks and brayers
• Printmaking paper (high-quality, acid-free)
• Access to a printing press
• Gloves, aprons, and all necessary safety equipment
What to Bring:
• Your ideas! This workshop is all about experimentation, so feel free to bring sketches, photographs, or inspiration materials.
• Comfortable clothing,closed-toe shoes and an apron (printmaking can get a little messy!).
Who Should Attend:
This workshop is open to artists of all levels, whether you’re completely new to printmaking or have experience with other techniques and want to expand your practice. If you’re drawn to the rich, tactile nature of line-based art and want to experiment with texture and depth, this workshop is for you.
Why Drypoint?
Drypoint prints have a unique charm. They combine the technical aspects of intaglio with a raw, almost primal quality that invites creative expression. The process allows you to carve directly into the plate, giving you full control over the texture and depth of your lines. The resulting prints are bold and intimate, with each mark telling its own story. If you’re ready to dive deep into the world of printmaking and make something entirely your own, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to explore the potential of drypoint.
Register Now!
Spaces are limited, so be sure to sign up soon! Whether you’re looking to explore a new medium, develop your printmaking skills, or simply enjoy a day of creativity, this workshop is sure to inspire.
About the facilitator:
Madelize van der Merwe is a South African printmaker and educator whose practice is rooted in technical mastery. She holds a B-Tech in Fine Art with a specialisation in printmaking from Nelson Mandela University and has worked extensively in the field for over a decade.
Madelize served as the printmaking facilitator at Carinus Art Centre in Makhanda from 2006 to 2019, where she also led community-focused workshops aimed at youth development through art. In 2019, she joined the Michaelis School of Fine Art at the University of Cape Town as the Senior Printmaking Technician, where she supports undergraduate and postgraduate students in a wide range of printmaking methods, including lithography, woodcut, screenprinting, drypoint, and linocut to mention a few.
In addition to her academic role, she co-facilitates professional workshops through the Africa South Art Initiative (ASAI), helping local artists expand their printmaking skills. As a practicing artist, Madelize creates layered, meditative prints that often draw inspiration from botanical forms and natural textures. Her work is deeply informed by process, material exploration, and a commitment to the tradition of print.
*If you need to cancel your workshop booking, please let us know by 11 a.m the weekday before the workshop. To help us support the facilitator, late cancellations will not be refunded. A credit for future events could be granted at our discretion.
R750.00
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