Workshop | Bursary Introduction to Etching with Vaida Varnagiene at Graphic Studio Dublin
Fine Art Print Bursary – 2-Day Etching Workshop
Free weekend workshop for those who have experienced displacement. Learn the full Intaglio Etching process – from preparing and etching a copper plate to inking and printing on a traditional press. No experience needed; all materials provided.
Apply now by 6 October 2025 at 4pm via email: education@graphicstudiodublin.com
Tutor: Vaida Varnagiene
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTION
Graphic Studio Dublin is delighted to offer the Fine Art Print Bursary, 2-day Weekend Etching Workshop for those who have experienced displacement.
This course is designed for artists who may be new to printmaking but are interested in the techniques. Using a pre-pared image as a starting point – size 12×15 cm, students will apply a hard ground to a copperplate, drawing lines in the wax and then etching this in acid. A fine aquatint will then be applied allowing the creation of a number of tones on the plate. Inking up and printing on a traditional printing press will follow and students may produce a small edition of their works.
REQUIREMENTS AND MATERIALS
Students will be provided with a copper plate size of 12×15 cm, plate making materials like grounds, scraping tools, paper, and inks. Students are asked to bring along some research and images to work from. These could be drawings, collages, image copies, photographs – anything that will inspire you. The plate size we work on is 12×15 cm. Please plan ahead for your artwork to fit this size.
As for materials, you will need to bring a notebook or sketchbook, various pencils, pens, paintbrushes, including small paintbrushes for fine work on creating atmospheric tones, an apron to protect your clothes from messes and spills while you’re working at creating art.
Health and safety information will be given at the start of the course, and you will be asked to sign a form declaring that you agree to follow health and safety procedures as advised. The studio will supply safety masks and goggles.
WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR?
This workshop is suitable for both beginners and more advanced students who are interested in learning Intaglio Etching.
Final application submission date is Monday 6th October 2025, 4pm (DIGITAL SUBMISSION ONLY).
Applications accepted by email education@graphicstudiodublin.com
Fine Art Print Bursary for those who have experienced displacement application
ABOUT THE TUTOR
Vaida Varnagiene is a multidisciplinary artist and printmaker. She works in a broad range of printing techniques, such as etching, photo intaglio etching, carborundum, and recently she started using woodblock printing (mokuhanga).
She used a variety of Intaglio processes over a long period of time to perfect her printmaking skills to high standards. Vaida enjoys teaching students and is delighted to share her knowledge of Intaglio Etching.
Vaida is Graphic Studio Dublin member since 2015.
Image: GSD Intaglio etching Workshop