Ieuan Edwards Visit
Creative children at Ramsgate Arts Primary are being inspired by Broadstairs artist Ieuan Edwards.
He passed on some top tips and techniques when he explained his creative process for lino cut printing to pupils.
Hannah Dannell, who is the Head of Arts at RAPS, said: “The children were fascinated by the process he uses and were in awe of his work.
“It was fantastic to have a real-life artist to come and talk to us about their work and I'm sure the children were inspired.”
Ieuan uses many layers to create depth to his images before rolling ink across his carvings. Finally, he uses a press to print his art and create a finished product. He is inspired by many things including explorations, old industrial structures and his family.
His art has appeared in galleries such as the Turner Contemporary at Margate as well as more unusual places such as the sails of a boat.
On his website he explains: “I produce hand-carved, hand-printed illustrations and limited edition prints using the deceptively simple medium of linocut.
“I usually cut from a single block of lino, printing the lightest colour first, then cutting into the same block for the next colour and so on until the final darkest colour. This means that a cut can never be repeated, making the small editions of prints collectable.
“My heritage, and chief inspiration for initially picking up a lino-cutting tool, lies in the (ex) coal mining communities of the Rhondda Valleys, South Wales.
“As well as industry, my other areas of interest are tradition (the stranger, the better), eccentricity, tribalism, exploration, folklore and palaeontology. Living on the Kent coast – with its heady mix of seaside towns, folk festivals, history and colourful characters – provides me with a plentiful supply of subject matter. “
Head of School Nick Budge said: “The children were captivated by what Ieuan creates and how he makes brilliant images appear from his intricate lino cuts.
“I am sure having an established creative explain his work processes to them will inform a lot of the work they do in the coming weeks.
“Describing his techniques and inspirations first hand is a great way for our children to really embrace the subject – and it shows them what can be achieved if they follow their creative dream.”
Ieuan’s work is currently on show at Turner Contemporary, Margate, until February 20; and at Lino Print 2022, Horsebridge Arts Centre, Whitstable, from January 22-February 13.
Find out more about his work online at www.blackgoldpress.co.uk
Ramsgate Arts Primary School is part of the Viking Academy Trust with Upton Junior School and Chilton Primary School.
*For more information, contact Head of School Nick Budge on 01843 582847