The Printmaking programme prides itself on the diversity of its student intake and its commitment to supporting each student in the search for a visual language appropriate to their interests and desires. The uniqueness of the RCA printmaking course is that it provides inductions in all print processes, and the support of skilled specialist technical instructors alongside a critical discourse fostered by a diverse team of practising artists. This creates an environment where definitions of print are challenged and expanded and results in a particular kind of hybridity in student work, which is distinguished from photography by the strong presence of drawing and from painting by the ever-presence of technology. The drawn and photographic image, use of text, bookworks and archiving practises are strong elements in the programme.
Students are encouraged to participate in the wider college community and seek external collaborations. An annual publishing project , which in 2011 was made in collaboration with the Royal Shakespeare Company, is part of our professional practice program.
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The programme offers:
- new purpose-built workshops, offering internationally renowned printmaking facilities and specialist technical instruction in all the major print mediums, including relief and intaglio, silkscreen printing, lithography and large-format digital printing
- students from the programme benefit from many opportunities for extending their practice, including teaching placements, publishing projects, external and College-based exhibitions, overseas travel and international exchanges. An annual publishing project and a programme-specific publication equips all students with an understanding of editioning and book production
- a well-established publications programme that includes work from artists such as Paula Rego, Bob and Roberta Smith, Chantel Joffe, Adam Dant, Christiane Baumgartner and Simon Patterson. All sales from the publications are put into a Printmaking Appeal fund to support current students
- distinguished visiting lecturers, who – in 2012 – included Kiki Smith, Broomberg and Chanarin, Clunie Reid, John Gerrard, Sonia Boyce, Faisal Abdu Allah, Sally O’Rielly, Bob and Roberta Smith, Adam Chodzko, John Stezaker and Peter Blegvad.
Open Days are held at the College between October and January of each academic year, to enable applicants to explore teaching programmes and meet staff and students.