Introduction to Polymergravure (in person)

This introductory workshop guides participants through each stage of the process from the original image file to the final print. Techniques covered include how to edit files correctly for the process using Adobe Photoshop, how to expose and process the plate and the various methods of inking, wiping, and pulling prints in the printshop.

This workshop concentrates on the increasingly popular, and simpler, way of making plates using the direct to plate method, eliminating the need for multiple exposures, aquatint screens, and a lot of the darkroom work.

Students create a black-and-white printed image generated from a photograph and printed on an etching press. Create prints that have the gravity and feel of a 19th century photogravure with the ease of 21st century printing technology!

Participants need to bring several high-resolution digital files of images (either from a digital camera or from a scan of film) that are ready to be edited in Photoshop. / Each student will have access to Adobe Creative Cloud software throughout the class.

Materials fee of $40 and Facilities fee of $100 in addition to course tuition. / Open to students ages 18 and above. View complete policies.

This class has limited access to the Printshop. The class meets on Wednesdays from 5:00-8:00 p.m. and students have open studio work time Saturdays from 12:00-5:00 p.m. and Mondays from 3:00-8:00 p.m. for the duration of the class. Students do not have access to the Printshop outside of these hours.

MCAD requires, with limited exceptions, all students, faculty, and staff who work or study on campus to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This includes a booster shot if eligible. We will also require that all students, faculty, staff, and visitors wear a high quality mask (such as an N95, KN95, or 3-ply surgical mask) indoors. This mandate is subject to change and includes all individuals regardless of vaccination status. Please see MCAD’s Covid policies for more information. Students will be asked to submit proof of vaccination before the first class meeting. Students must complete this proof of vaccination form. If proof of vaccination is not received before the first class meeting, you will be automatically dropped from the class.

Required materials

Supplies

• pen or pencil
• notebook or sketchbook
• USB drive or cloud storage option for saving work
• latex gloves
• printmaking paper
• several high-resolution digital files of images (either from a digital camera or from a scan of film) that are ready to be modified in Photoshop

A complete list of suggested materials will be discussed during the first class meeting. Supplies will cost approximately $50. Some supplies are covered by the material fees.

Class resources

This class uses Adobe Creative Cloud, the Printshop, and Papercut, MCAD’s print management system. Please see links for more information.

What to wear

Clothes appropriate for messy creativity. An apron may be useful. Closed toe shoes are required. Long hair should be tied back.

Registration deadline

June 10

If the minimum enrollment is not met by the deadline above, the class will be canceled on this date. Registration will remain open after this date if the minimum enrollment has been met.

Class savings

Register on or before May 16 and save $25.

Register for more than one class at a time and receive $25 off each additional class (same-day registrations only).

Additional savings. Are you eligible?

Questions

Contact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765.