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Sherri K will be leading this hands on workshop exploring how gel plates can be used for creating prints, from the simple to the complex. Printed paper can be used for collage elements or you can create stand-alone prints. Gel plates can also be used to create complex, layered image transfers using magazines.

Monoprinting is a type of printmaking where the intent is to make unique prints, that may explore an image serially. While other methods of printmaking create editioned multiples, the monoprint is editioned as 1 of 1. (from Wikipedia)

Sherri will bring an assortment of the necessary supplies for people to try out, however, if you are interested in doing more gel plate printing, they can be purchased locally* or online. The "original" Gelli Plate is made by Gelli Arts, but a few other companies make a version as well. Gel Press make several different sizes and shapes, they also have a great beginner's guide to gel printing. *Blick has both Gelli Arts and Gel Press plates at the downtown PDX location.

If you're feeling extra crafty, and are comfortable using animal products, you can make your own gelatin plate. Link to a recipe below.

Suggested Supplies:

• Commercial gel plate or homemade gelatin plate

• Acrylic paints (medium to heavy body works best)

• Brayer for applying paint evenly

• Baren or wooden spoon for burnishing

• Paper to print onto

• Waste paper to clean excess paint onto

• Water bottle

• Paper towels

• Work surface protection

• Magazine images or toner based prints (for image transfers)

• Stencils

• Tools for creating patterns on plate (e.g., acrylic paint tools)

The Mixed-Media Collage Artists Guild (MMCAG) is a program supported by the Independent Publishing Resource Center (IPRC)!

While MMCAG events are free, we suggest supporting all of the amazing programming at IPRC, a 501c3 charitable organization, by offering a small contribution when you register for this event ($6 suggested).

Links:

IPRC: https://www.iprc.org/

Printmaking Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Printmaking

Gelli Arts: https://www.gelliarts.com/collections/gel-printing-plates

Gel Press (plates): https://gelpress.com/collections/all

Beginners Guide to Gel Plate Printing: https://gelpress.com/blogs/art-and-inspiration/gel-plate-printing

Homemade Gel Plate: https://www.creativefabrica.com/the-artistry/mixed-media/how-to-make-a-gelli-plate-at-home/

Sensory Note: For anyone experiencing audio or visual sensitivity, please note that the IPRC is situated under a skatepark, which creates occasional disruptive background noise, and the lighting in the studio and classroom space is primarily fluorescent. We do have ear plugs available for members.

Health Note: We will continue to properly wear our masks, per IPRC policy, when gathering in person to support the health of our members and their families who live with chronic health conditions. Please keep up to date on your boosters!

We Keep US Safe!