On Saturday I …

…  I went to  a printmaking workshop with Cath Baldwin.  I was not sure what to expect as all materials were provided. All I knew was that the theme was Allen Seaby’s book Pattern without pain.  I have a copy and had worked through some of the exercises in preparation.  

The day began with a short overview of the exhibition of Allen Seaby’s work at the Reading Museum.  Although, I had seen it before; it was extraordinary hearing about one of the leading pioneers of 20th century printmakers and those who inspired him and the way he went on to encourage contemporary printmakers and fabric and interior designers.  

So, what seemed to start out, for me as another linocutting day turned out to be something quite different and exciting. While the lino, tools and the techniques were very important; the day was more about the joy; in the words of Seaby ‘no pain,’  of shape, colour and repetition. We did have a short  clarification of the colour wheel that allowed us to make considered colour combinations or for me bring understanding to a theory that was not always clear.

As you know I am a poor student and fears and anxiety can cloud my vision,  when it did become clear my pattern and colour combinations were not as zingy as the others in the class. However, it was a good day and I will put the lessons learned to practice in good time.