Ruth Osborne - Introduction to Printmaking

Ruth has created a series of printmaking tutorial videos as part of our ESRC Create and Connect project to develop online arts-based activities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The activities will build upon the work of RAG and provide mental health and wellbeing support for patients who face an extended, lonely period of self-isolation. As we are unable to run in-person events and workshops due to the ongoing pandemic, the online activities will provide an introduction to a range of art forms that we hope patients will find engaging and enjoyable.

Ruth Osborne is a mixed-media artist based by the shores of Strangford Lough in County Down. Her work centres on print-based media, combining a variety of techniques and working primarily on Irish linen. Ruth’s work is inspired by the landscape, seasons, foliage, and folklore of the local area.

"I use native plants as part of my printmaking process. These plants are gathered from locations close to my home and the marks they make through printing are incorporated into my art. I am fascinated by the forms and patterns found in our natural environment and with the historic uses, symbolism and meaning associated with native plants in Ireland."

We hope that you enjoy the tutorials and would really appreciate your feedback on our art activities by clicking the link at the bottom of the page. 

Printing at Home Equipment List

• Inks - waterbased block printing ink and/or safe wash oil based ink
• Roller (Brayer)
• Tray or flat surface for rolling out ink
• Sheet of acrylic/perspex/or glass as your 'plate' for creating your image on
• Barren or spoon
• Kitchen roll or newsprint paper
• Jar of water
• Paint brush
• Wipes or a cloth for cleaning hands
• Tea towel
• Misting bottle with water
• Your surface to create prints on - a selection of paper and/or fabric
• Pencil
• Scissors