Big News! I'm teaching for GelliArts - Your Printmaking Journey

Earlier this spring I found a very exciting email in my inbox. Lou Ann Gleason, co-founder of GelliArts, was inviting me to be an instructor for a new online workshop this fall titled, GelliArts - Your Printmaking Journey.

Thinking about my own printmaking journey that began 14 years ago in an introductory workshop at the Schack Art Center, I could not have imagined receiving this email. But there it was...and I was thrilled!

I've been working on filming and editing videos, taking photos, writing instructions and supply lists in the free moments of summer, but I haven't been able to talk about it until today.

Before I dive into my lesson, here are some the details on the event....

• 13 inspiring classes from 13 talented artists starting October 18
• 6 weeks of creative learning at your own pace - with lifetime access to lessons
• Techniques for every skill level—from beginner to experienced gel printers
• Beautiful finished projects you'll be proud to keep, use, or gift

The list of instructors is fantastic! Most are people I've also been inspired by for years on social media, so it's wonderful to be included in such a talented group.

Click here for more information on the event and SIGN UP NOW! Early bird pricing of $149 (regularly $199 USD) lasts through August 31st. 

Now back to the story of Lou Ann's email and my lesson..... In the email she said they were impressed with my registration and alignment and asked if I would create a lesson that focused on teaching people those skills. 

I immediately thought of a printed grid. I love a grid, who doesn't?! Plus it also leans on my early influence of quilting patterns. And it's a composition structure that most people understand, even if they don't have much experience with abstract printmaking.  But, even if you don't want to print grids all day, I show you ways to create compositions with clean lines and precise registration. It will help you approach you plate with a plan. 

You see, I believe there are two sides to gel printing....

The Playful side where you're experimenting with colors, textures, and masks in a printing session that ends with a with a giant pile of colorful papers surrounding you on the floor. 

And, the Planned side where you have a loose idea or guide before you dive into the printing. You may alter plans along the way, but you already know the colors, textures, shapes, and overall idea you're trying to achieve. You may work for an hour or two and only have one print, but it's ready to hang on the wall. 

My lesson for GelliArts is a starting point for the Planned side of gel printing. I know not everyone cares about making finished art on a gel plate, but I also see plenty of people in my classes that get frustrated when they feel like all they're printing is a pile of papers that are the start of another project, not a finished one. 

In addition to the printing portion of the lesson, I also show you how I approach incorporating adding hand stitching or acrylic markers for added details in the final piece. 

And, while my lesson is based on a 6" x 6" square gel plate, I include a nine-rectangle template for an 8" x 10" gel plate as well.  And, psst... I made a bonus video with another idea related to my original grid project that's also included. 

If you have any questions about my lesson please let me know in the comments, or email me at info@marenoates.com. 

For questions on GelliArts - Your Printmaking Journey or to sign up today. CLICK HERE