Leonardo Da Vinci: Sketch + Print: Saturday 12th October

Saturday Studio Session - Learning from the Masters

Leonardo da Vinci  (April 15 1452 - May 2 1519) 

Leonardo da Vinci was a leading figure of the High Renaissance in Italy and excelled in a wide range of fields including painting, engineering, science, sculpture, and architecture.

While initially celebrated for his exceptional painting skills, da Vinci's influence goes far beyond his artwork. His extensive notebooks are filled with drawings and notes on various subjects such as anatomy, astronomy, botany, cartography, painting, and palaeontology. Considered a genius who embodied the ideals of Renaissance humanism, his works have inspired countless artists throughout the ages, even rivalling his contemporary Michelangelo.

Throughout history, da Vinci's achievements, diverse interests, personal life, and empirical thinking have continued to fascinate and inspire. His name remains synonymous with innovation, creativity, and intellectual curiosity.

Join us for an exciting introduction to the legendary genius Leonardo da Vinci, where we will spend an afternoon drawing and transforming one of the artist's portrait images into a print!

Da Vinci's revolutionary sfumato technique, in which he skillfully blurs lines and boundaries, brought a new level of realism to his artwork. He believed that people didn't see sharp lines in real life, but rather a soft, hazy quality. He described his technique as "without lines or borders, in the manner of smoke or beyond the focus plane.” Using the drypoint technique, we will explore the method of creating an intaglio print, focusing on fine lines and delicate marks, much like da Vinci's own work.

This workshop is a fantastic opportunity for complete beginners, those looking to improve their skills, and even more advanced artists who would like to spend a creative afternoon in the studio. You'll receive expert guidance throughout the workshop, ensuring that you get the most out of this exciting experience!

The moment when your image is printed on the etching press is truly magical - it's the culmination of all your hard work and creativity, and it's a moment to be savoured before the end of the afternoon.