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Description
This workshop explores polyester plate litho, which can be considered traditional lithography’s hip cousin. Students will learn the fundamentals of working with pronto plates—thin, flexible polyester sheets that were originally used in the commercial print industry. This accessible, non-toxic printmaking method enables the artist to reproduce multiple copies of their drawings or photographic imagery in the lithographic style using rich, oil-based inks printed on fine papers or other substrates.
Liz will demonstrate the essential components and technical details of the process, including plate creation, ink fundamentals, registration techniques, and operation of the Chases Conrad etching press. Students will use simple, accessible materials such as ballpoint pens, Sharpie markers, image scans, and photocopies to create their plates. They will create unique or edition prints that incorporate hand-drawn or photographic elements, or both. Students will then receive hands-on instruction as they practice and explore this versatile process.
Students can expect to produce at least one edition of multiple-color 8"x10" prints while developing a comprehensive understanding of so-called 'planographic' printing techniques.
Skill Level
No experience required; all skill levels welcome!
What to Bring
1 roll of paper towels
A notebook and writing utensils
Students should bring drawings, photos, and other sources of inspiration
Provided Materials
Four 8.5"×11" polyester plates per student
Six 8” x 10” pieces of paper per student
Drawing Materials: red oil-based Sharpies, floor wax mix, #3 litho crayon, artist brushes, other mark-making materials
A variety of printmaking ink colors
Printmaking studio chemistry, supplies, equipment, and tools
Photocopier with laptop
Cleaning supplies, gloves, and newsprint
Logistics
Registered students will receive a “welcome” email one week prior to the start date.
Liz Bannish
Liz Bannish is an artist and printmaker who has always resided in New England and is currently the printer for Chases Garage in York Beach. Liz started SCUBA diving at 12 and had lifelong plans to become a marine biologist, so she naturally earned her BFA in printmaking. The sea and its cool little critters still remain a fixation in Liz’s artwork and otherwise. Diving for the Maritime Aquarium to maintain the habitat for their five sand tiger sharks is one of the greatest satisfactions of her life.
Back on land at the print shop, Liz collaborates with artists on print projects in etching, lithography, monotype, and more. She teaches workshops both at Chases and abroad on printmaking, as well as on printmakers’ health & safety, including hazard identification, proper lab protection, and prudent practices. Closing this educational gap for printmakers is a large aspect of her collaborations and workshops.
For more info, visit: www.lizbart.com or @lizbannish
TERMS + CONDITIONS
Adults (18 or older) may register for classes & workshops at Chases Garage. Chases reserves the right to cancel courses, substitute instructors, change course times, and limit enrollment. The student agrees to abide by any and all rules and policies of the studios. Chases will assume no responsibility for any loss, personal or physical. With enrollment, a student consents to being photographed in classes (unless we informed in writing). These photographs may be used by Chases in future promotional efforts without specific written permission from the student.
WORKSHOP WITHDRAWAL & REFUND POLICY
Due to limited space, pre-ordered materials, logistical constraints, and the nature of our workshop formats, all workshop registrations are non-refundable once confirmed. Chases Garage does not issue refunds unless we cancel a workshop due to low enrollment.