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# Alan Birch

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## Posts

- [News](https://alanbirch.co.uk/news/) - REVEAL EVENT A WEEKEND OF OPEN STUDIOS IN THE ROSSENDALE VALLEY On the weekend of 6th and 7th of June, Alan Birch will show his work at Prospect Studios, Waterfoot. It will be the first chance to see new work on the theme of "Dancing with the Devil ". He will be in the studio
- [Class dates for  2026](https://alanbirch.co.uk/class-dates-for-2026/) - Alan will be running regular printmaking classes this winter. The classes are open classes where regular printers continue to develop their work into print. Classes take place 10a.m - 4 p.m.Beginners are welcome and will explore a variety of printing techniques under Alan's direction. The studio has 3 presses and artists can focus on etching,
- [Winterfest at The Whitaker](https://alanbirch.co.uk/winterfest-at-the-whitaker/) - Once again, Prospect Printmakers will be showing their work as part of the Winterfest at The Whittaker in Rawtenstall. Do come along and chat and peruse the prints. All prints have been printed at Prospect Studio by 15 of the artists. Prints make great presents . For more information do contact me. We will be
- [Our-Lady's Print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/our-ladys-print-2/) - Year 1 pupils from Our-Lady's Primary School in Manchester spent an enjoyable session with artist Alan Birch at The Whitworth in Manchester. Working from Natural forms found in the collection , pupils produced some excellent sketches which were theme cut from textured wallpapers. It was great to see the pupils and teachers get involved with
- [Pupils print nature.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/8159-2/) - Key stage 2 pupils from Greenacres Primary Academy spent 2 days working with on prints with the form of nature. Engravings were produced on the theme of birds, engravings were also printed on fabric by year 6 pupils which were later embroidered. Years 3 and 5 looked at the theme of flowers and fossils, producing
- [Prehistoric Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prehistoric-prints/) - Pupils from Marsden Community Primary School expanded their research on fossils into printmaking. Working with artist Alan Birch they produced drawings which were later cut from a range of textured papers and then printed with water based inks using a portable printing press. The pupils produced some excellent prints which will enhance their subject area.
- [Drypoint session](https://alanbirch.co.uk/drypoint-session/) - As part of the Bury Festival of Arts , Alan worked with a group of adults on a series of drypoint, For many of the artists this was their first taste of printing and they excelled with their work. Using pieces of perspex , participants worked from a series of photographs or from their sketchbooks
- [Open Studio event](https://alanbirch.co.uk/open-studio-event/) - Hi everyone. We are opening our studios to the public for the weekend: Sat 25th and Sun 26th October. 10 am - 4pm There will be paintings, prints, drawings and sculptures by myself and Alan Birch and Jill Randall. There will be lots of artwork for sale, and as always there will be tea, coffee
- [Looking at Turner.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/looking-at-turner/) - Members of the Age Friendly group of artists at The Whitworth looked at the exhibition of Turner's mezzotint prints before making drawings which were turned into prints. The engravings using a range of engraving tools and sandpaper explored the tones seen in the exhibition. Members produced some excellent prints in the short session with Alan
- [Age friendly Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/age-friendly-prints-3/) - Members of the Age Friendly Group at the Whitworth spent an afternoon working with printmaker Alan Birch. Working from the printed textile collection, artists used textured wallpapers to create a range of vibrant and colourful prints. For more information about age friendly events contact Claire Cowell at The Whitworth.
- [Cyanotype prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/cyanotype-prints/) - Members of Prospect Studio experimented with the process of Cyanotype with photographer Cath Stanley. The artists used a range of chemicals and natural potions to develop their images onto fabric and paper. The process is very versatile and can be explored at home with limited equipment. There are plans to run a similar class soon,
- [Year 10 print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/year-10-print/) - Year 10 students from St Cuthbert's High School visited Manchester , taking in the Central Library, and Manchester Art Gallery before spending an afternoon printing with artist Alan Birch. Working from the work of Peruvian artist, shaman and environmental artist Santigo Yahuarcani, the students produced drawings which were later turned into engravings. Some pupils even
- [Peruvian printing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/peruvian-printing/) - Nearly 100 year 4 pupils spent time at The Whitworth in Manchester looking at the work of Peruvian artist Santiago Yahuarcani. The exhibition , part of the Manchester Festival features large works by the indigenous activist and shaman, runs until January. The pupils from Hursthead Primary School were given a print demonstration before make drawings,
- [Town centre prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/town-centre-prints/) - Year 1 pupils from Woodnook Primary School in Accrington, working in conjunction with the Haworth Art Gallery produced drawings and prints based on the buildings of Accrington. Having seen paintings of Accrington in the collection, the pupils constructed printing plates from textured wallpapers. They later inked these plates and printed them using a portable printing
- [Printing nature.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-nature-2/) - % Nearly 150 Year 1 pupils from Beaver Road Primary School in Manchester, worked with printmaker Alan Birch at The Whitworth during the month of June. Working on the theme of natural forms, found in the textiles and printed pieces from the collection, the children worked over 3 days, producing drawings and colourful prints. Water
- [George House Trust prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/george-house-trust-prints/) - Members of George House Trust in Manchester, visited the Whitworth in May , to look at the exhibitions and work with printmaker Alan Birch. Artists looked at the exhibition Women in Revolt which runs until the end of May and produced their own engravings with collage to illustrate a cause important to them. Some excellent
- [Prospect prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-prints-5/) - Printmakers have been busy over the past two months working on mono prints, etchings and drypoints. Many printers will be showing their work at Valley Studios as part of the Rossendale Art Trail this weekend. Some will be seen on art fairs at The Whittaker and Helmshore Textile Mill later in the year. Classes continue
- [First visit the Whitworth](https://alanbirch.co.uk/first-visit-the-whitworth/) - year 7 pupils from The Brian Clarke Church of England Academy visited the Whitworth for the first time. They were able to look at the many exhibitions currently on show, before producing sketches which were used to create some wonderfully detailed engravings, based on works from the collection of wallpapers and textiles. Thank you for
- [Teachers print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/teachers-print-3/) - Trainee teachers visited the Whitworth in Manchester to look at the exhibitions on display and make drawings which they could use to make engravings or relief prints. The prints would be used to reflect on their experiences of their last year. Some excellent prints were produced and led to interesting discussions during and after the
- [Rousseau prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/rousseau-prints-2/) - Year 5 pupils from Leyland Methodist Schools spent an exciting and creative day working with artist Alan Birch. Responding to the theme of Rousseau's jungle themed paintings, pupils produced drawings which were later turned into engravings and printed on a relief background of leaves. Some great prints were produced.
- [Year 2 at The Whitworth](https://alanbirch.co.uk/year-2-at-the-whitworth/) - Year 2 pupils from the Manchester Muslim Preparatory School visited the Whitworth in Manchester to work with printmaker Alan Birch. The pupils worked from the natural forms found in textiles currently on display. They made drawings then cut shapes from textured wallpaper to make s coloured prints using a portable printing press. "Thank you for
- [Mezzotint weekend](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mezzotint-weekend/) - Printmaker Stuart Brocklehurst made his annual visit to Prospect Studios to work with a small group of artists to produce mezzotint prints. Over the weekend printmakers worked their small plates, working with burnishers to create a range of mid tones on their plates. Once again some excellent prints were produced . It is my plan
- [Prospect prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-prints-4/) - Artists continue to work at Prospect Studios under the guidance of printmaker Alan Birch. Artists have been particularly busy with collographs, relief prints , etchings and aquatints and monoprints being created. Featured artists are Caroline Johnson, Ella Cole, Janet Butcher, Jill Randall, Gillian Smithson, Hermione Walker and Cath Stanley.
- [Secondary prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/secondary-prints-2/) - Over the winter term several secondary groups have visited the Whitworth to explore printing with Alan Birch. Students have explored the exhibitions currently on display , producing drawings which have been transformed into prints. Engraving and collage have been used to great effect. For many pupils this was their first venture into printing.
- [Riverside prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/riverside-prints/) - Year 4 pupils from Waterfoot Primary School spent the afternoon printing with artist Alan Birch. Pupils made drawings which were turned into engravings. Alan is currently working on a project to design a fencing panel for Rossendale Borough Council, and it is to be hoped that a few of the shapes produced may be incorporated
- [Plague prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/plague-prints-2/) - The theme of the Great Plague proved to be a creative starting point for Year 4 pupils at St Stephens Primary School in Burnley. Drawings made by the pupils were transformed into engravings by the pupils and later inked and printed . In the afternoon pupils explored the theme of the river in a series
- [Laudato Si](https://alanbirch.co.uk/laudato-si/) - Printmaker Alan Birch spent 2 days working with Year 3-6 pupils at St Sebastians RC Primary School in Salford. Pupils worked on the theme of Laudato Si, producing drawings on themes such as kindness, the environment, compassion and planet protection. Some excellent engravings, mixed media prints and relief prints were produced. " Many thanks for
- [Mothers Day prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mothers-day-prints/) - Printmaker Alan Birch spent 2 days working with year 2-4 pupils at St Jospehs Primary School in Ramsbottom creating prints which will be used as presents for Mothers Day. Theme explored were Pop Art and the work of Marc Chagall . Engravings and relief prints were made with all pupils creating their own drawings and
- [Outwood Academy print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/outwood-academy-print-2/) - Year 11 pupils worked with Alan Birch for a day, exploring the creative opportunities afforded by print. Students expanded their creative repertoire into engraving, chine college and relief printing, using their coursework as starting points. Some excellent prints were produced and a few students made over 15 prints during the day.
- [St Ambrose prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/st-ambrose-prints/) - Year 10 students from St Ambrose Barlow RC High School in Salford used their coursework to produce a body of prints including engravings and relief prints to enhance their GCSE portfolios. Some excellent prints were produced with some students venturing into mixed media prints, using collage. " Many thanks for coming in on Friday. As
- [Mayan printing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mayan-printing/) - Year 4 pupils from Healey Dell Primary School spent a creative day with Printmaker Alan Birch creating drawings which were later turned into engravings. The themes of Mayan art and Japanese woodcuts currently being studied in class were used as resource material .Pupils engraved and inked their printing plates before using the portable printing press
- [New Workshops for 2025](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-workshops-for-2025/) - Info: hello
- [Printmaking Workshops](https://alanbirch.co.uk/all-day-printmaking-workshop/) - New workshops for Winter 2025 dates: Turn your work into prints at Prospect Studio in Waterfoot., Rossendale. Alan Birch has been running printmaking classes in his studio for over 30 years. In that period over 250 people have produced etchings, relief prints, drypoint and collographs. The small friendly classes , limited to a maximum of
- [Mezzotint workshop](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mezzotint-workshop/) - Printmaker Stuart Brocklehurst paid hits regular visit to Prospect Studios to work with members of Prospect Printmakers . Stuart who is an experienced printmaker introduced people to the process and took them through various proofs before printing a small edition of prints.
- [Handmade prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/handmade-prints-3/) - Members of Hand Made ( artists over 50 ) had a productive day at the Whitworth producing a range of mono prints based on the work of John Lyons on display in the gallery. Some excellent prints were producing reflecting the colour and shapes found in the gallery.
- [William Morris prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/william-morris-prints/) - Year 4 from Our Lady's and St Anselms Primary School in Whitworth embarked on their annual printmaking experience with Alan Birch. Using the theme of William Morris they produced some excellent engravings and a few polystyrene prints using natural shapes found in the textiles and prints of William Morris.
- [George House Trust](https://alanbirch.co.uk/george-house-trust-2/) - Members of the George House Trust visited the Whitworth and worked with artist Alan Birch, producing engravings based on the John Lyons show. For many this was their first taste of engraving .
- [NSEAD print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/nsead-print/) - Members of the National Society for Education in Art and Design met at the Whitworth in July and spent Over 60 teachers produced a copious number of relief prints incorporating collage and mixed media. The starting point was works that were on display in the gallery during the conference. Copies of some of the images
- [John Lyons Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/john-lyons-prints/) - The exhibition by John Lyons inspired primary school children to produce some excellent engravings from their drawings. A range of pupils from Year 3 to 5 loved the carnival senes portrayed in the show and were particularly drawn to the owls found in the prints and drawings. A range of the work is shown below.
- [Plague Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/plague-prints/) - Alan Birch spent a creative day with Year 4 pupils from St Stephens Primary School in Burnley, producing engravings and relief prints. The themes explored were The Plague and The River with images depicting the lague doctor, rats, ships and butterflies , fish and frogs . The children made their own prints and inked and
- [Cape Cornwall Residency](https://alanbirch.co.uk/cape-cornwall-residency/) - Alan Birch spent 2 weeks on Cape Cornwall working on a series for drawings which were later turned into a series of prints including etchings mono prints and sugar lift etchings in the studio. The weather was an experience with 2 hurricances and plenty of rain passing through the area, but it did make for
- [Amazonian prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/7665-2/) - 2 groups of Year 5 pupils from Our Lady-St Gerards Primary School in Lostock experimented with printmaking as part of their Amazon Rainforest topic. A series of drawings were developed into engravings. and relief prints by the pupils as they explored these techniques for the first time.
- [GCSE Printing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gcse-printing-2/) - Year 11 pupils from Outwood Academy in Hindley spent 2 days working with printmaker Alan Birch working on a series off prints as part of their GCSE preparatory studies. A range of techniques were employed to enhance their work including engraving, relief printing and collage.
- [Outwood Academy Print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/7615-2/) - Outwood Academy Print! Year 10 pupils worked with artist Alan Birch, producing a range of prints to enhance their GCSE coursework. An amazing range of work was produced, relief , intaglio, mono prints and chine colle works. The students produced a copious amount of work which went a long way to the students getting great
- [Traces of Displacement.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/7646-2/) - Year 9 pupils from St Ambrose Barlow in Salford spent time in the Whitworth working with printmaker Alan Birch. The group who had registered an interest in choosing art for their GCSE subjects worked from the " Traces of Displacement " show producing drawings and engravings using text to collage into their prints. The exhibition
- [Parrs Wood Print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/parrs-wood-print/) - To coincide with the exhibition of. engravings by Albrecht Durer , exhibited at the Whitworth in Manchester, Year 10 pupils from Parrs Wood High School embarked on a major creative project in 2023-24. Working with printmaker Alan Birch and photographer Andrew Brooks the pupils produced work on the theme of identity . Initial research in
- [Pop Art prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pop-art-prints-3/) - Year 5 pupils From Gaskall Primary School worked with artist Alan Birch,at the Whitworth Art Gallery producing a range of prints based on Pop Art. Using textured wallpaper and collage, pupils produced a range of colourful and vibrant prints, using water based inks and a portable printing press.
- [PROSPECT STUDIOS OPEN EVENT](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-studios-open-event/) - PROSPECT STUDIOS 20TH ANNIVERSARY OPEN WEEKEND 26th and 27th OCTOBER 2024 11 a.m to 4 p.m Prospect Studios are holding an Open Studio event to celebrate their 20th anniversary. Set up in 2004 by Manchester based artists Liam Spencer, Jill Randall and Alan Birch, the studio has grown into a creative hub in Rossendale. Alan,
- [Melancolia](https://alanbirch.co.uk/melancolia/) - Alan will be resident in the Whitworth on the 5th October 12-7pm , editioning prints from the new plate created digitally from print in the collection at the Whitworth. Come along and watch the magical process and have a chat.
- [Freshers print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/freshers-print/) - New students enrolled at Manchester University , spent an enjoyable evening drawing and printing from the Albrecht Durer exhibition at The Whitworth. Upon completing their drawings , students returned to the garden studio to engrave and ink their prints. For many this was their first taste of printing and some excellent prints were produced. #alanbirch
- [Printing Durer.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-durer/) - Visit the Whitworth on Thursday to see Alan Birch print from the digitally recreated plate of Melancolia by Durer. Working from the plate created by artists Goldin +Senneby, Alan will be working from 12pm -7pm . The print-run will be for sale from the Whitworth shop during the exhibition. #alanbirch #printmaking #thewhitworth #engraving #prospect studio
- [The Objects of Durer](https://alanbirch.co.uk/the-objects-of-durer/) - Year 10 students from the Albion Academy in Salford spent a creative day working with the artist Alan Birch at the Whitworth in Manchester. The students were given printing demonstrations before drawing from the Durer exhibition. As the students had started a project based on objects they sought out objects from the Durer prints ,
- [Goosfest 2023](https://alanbirch.co.uk/goosfest-2023/) - Great to be taking part in Goosfest 2023. , the Arts Festival taking place in Cheshire. Should be a great selection of work, and I am running a print workshop on Sunday. The work is on show Friday to Sunday 1st October. For more info visit https://goosfest.com/tickets/goosfest-art-in-the-barns-exhibitions/
- [Cheshire workshops](https://alanbirch.co.uk/cheshire-workshops/) - I will be running a printmaking taster as part of the Goosfest held in Goostrey, Cheshire . The workshop will take place on Sunday the 1st of October and will cover techniques such as drypoint, engraving , relief printing with wallpaper and mono printing. For more details contact goosfest.com. As part of the festival there
- [New prints from Prospect.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-prints-from-prospect-3/) - Artists have been busy working on new prints, alongside their 20-20 prints this summer. Some excellent works have been created, involving collograph, etching, spit bite and mezzotint. Artist Stuart Brocklehurst made his annual visit to Prospect and 8 artists worked on excellent works. Artists will be submitting these for exhibition over the next few months.
- [Prints from Durer](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prints-from-durer/) - As part of the Manchester Festival , visitors to the Whitworth were given a tour of the Albrecht Durer exhibition, followed by a drypoint taster session, led by Alan Birch. Participants produced drawings from the exhibition , and later transformed these into drypoint using a range of engraving tools on perspex. The prints were excellent
- [Reprinting Durer](https://alanbirch.co.uk/reprinting-durer/) - I will be back printing from the brass plate, created from a print of Melancholia by Durer in the Whitworth collection on September the 14th. The plate created by artists Goldin + Senneby is currently on display in the Whitworth as part of Economics the Blockbuster . I will be in attendance from 12 to
- [Printing from Durer.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-from-durer/) - Looking forward to printing the Melancholia prints at the Whitworth for the new exhibition which opens on Friday evening 6 pm . The brass plate was created from a print from the Whitworth collection by artists Goldin+Senneby. I will be printing for four days during the exhibition . First session Saturday 8th July . Hope
- [Salford Staff print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/salford-staff-print/) - Tutors from the Fine Art Course at Salford University, spent a day at Prospect Studios working with printmaker Alan Birch. Painter David Hancock produced two small etchings and aquatints, painter Brendan Fletcher worked on a large sugar lift etching, ceramics artist Angela Tait worked on a couple of etchings and Jill Randall completed etchings. Alan
- [Winter prints at Prospect.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/winter-prints-at-prospect/) - Printmakers have been busy during the winter months producing some excellent work at the studios. Etchings, sugar lifts, collographs and chine college prints have been coming off the press and hopefully they will be shown at venues around the north west. Images below are by Jill Randall, Ella Cole, Caroline Johnson, Hermione Walker, Maria Murtagh
- [Portrait prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/portrait-prints-2/) - year 9 pupils from St Ambrose Barlow RC High School, Swinton visited The Whitworth for a day in February visiting the collection and working with artist Alan Birch. The worked from the exhibition of portraits in the ( Un ) Defining Queer exhibition. Pupils produced drawings which were later turned into engravings in the learning
- [GCSE paintwork](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gcse-paintwork/) - Year 11 pupils from St Ambrose Barlow RC High School spent a day working with artist Alan Birch. The GCSE group extended their GCSE coursework into a variety of print techniques, using engraving and collage. For many this was their first taste of printing! Some excellent prints were produced and hopefully their efforts will be
- [Printing nature](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-nature/) - Pupils from Crosslee Primary School in Manchester visited The Whitworth for the first time to work with printmaker Alan Birch. The Year 3 group looked at natural shapes found in the permanent collection, and from their sketches, the pupils cut out shapes from textured wallpaper. Using water based inks the pupils printed their own individual
- [Family printing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/family-printing-2/) - Alan Birch introduced families to the technique of engraving at The Whitaker. Using the work of Liam Spencer as a starting point, children and adults produced drawings which they later turned into prints. Everyone produced some amazing prints and it was good to see parents take the challenge on board, especially dads! During the day,
- [Pop Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pop-prints/) - Year 5 pupils from Our Lady &St Anselm's RC Primary School in Waterfoot produced some excellent engravings with artist Alan Birch. Inspired by Pop Art paintings, pupils created their own drawings, made engravings and printed their work on a portable press. Collage and text were also added to enhance the works. Chine colle prints from
- [Year 9 prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/year-9-prints/) - Year 9 and Year 11 students from Hathershaw College spent a half day working with printmaker Alan Birch. Pupils used the day to enhance their coursework, working on engravings and collage prints. For many this was their first attempt at printing and great results were produced. Prints produced by students from Hathershaw College. #alanbirch #printmaking
- [Landmark prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/landmark-prints-2/) - Year 3 pupils from Constable Lee Primary School in Rawtenstall spent a creative day working with artist Alan Birch at The Whitaker. Pupils made pencil drawings of local landmarks and then engraved their works onto card plates. They then inked their own plates using water based inks, prior to printing them on a portable printing
- [Denton GCSE pupils print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/denton-gcse-pupils-print/) - GCSE pupils from Denton Community College spent the day at the Whitworth exploring the work of Althea McNeish . The split group were able to produce engravings, relief prints and mono prints during their 2 hour session. The prints really made good use of the vibrant colours and shapes, found in the colourful fabrics and
- [Local GCSE prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/local-gcse-prints/) - Year 11 pupils from Marsden Heghts Community College in Nelson enhanced their GCSE coursework by working with artist Alan Birch . A series of engravings and relief prints were produced and the pupils fully utilised the workshop. The theme of architecture worked very well with engraving as collage could be used. Marsden Heights Community School
- [20-20 Print exchange](https://alanbirch.co.uk/20-20-print-exchange-3/) - Artists from Prospect Studio took part in the annual print exchange organised by Hot Bed Press studio in Manchester. Artists produced an edition of 25 prints on paper which is 20cm square. In return they receive a portfolio of prints, randomly selected from printmakers from the UK and abroad. Some excellent prints were produced as
- [Prospect at Winterfest .](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-at-winterfest/) - Printmakers from Prospect Studios exhibited their work at The Whitaker in Rawtenstall as part of their inaugural Winterfest event. Makers showed their work, whilst choirs , Santa and other entertainers performed. The event was a success with many artists selling work. The highlight was a performance by Rossendale Male Voice Choir. Prospect Printmakers show at
- [Blessed Thomas Holford print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/blessed-thomas-holford-print/) - GCSE pupils from Blesssed Thomas Holford Catholic College spent the day printing with Alan Birch. Using a portable printing press and water based inks, pupils based their work on the GCSE coursework. Engravings, relief prints and some collage works were produced as over 60 pupils took part in the session. There was even time for
- [Primary Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/primary-prints-3/) - Two year 5 groups from Bridgewater Primary School, spent an enjoyable day at The Whitworth in Manchester. Looking at the patterns and shapes in the textile gallery, pupils produced sheets of drawings which were used to cut shapes from textured wallpapers . These were then printed using water based inks and a portable printing press.
- [Safe as Houses](https://alanbirch.co.uk/safe-as-houses-2/) - Alan Birch spent an afternoon working with members of the Safe as Houses project in Bury. All the group who have experienced homelessness in the past, produced drawings which were then taken into engraving and collage. For most of the group this was their first taste of printing and hopefully they will be exhibiting their
- [Academy prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/academy-prints/) - Year 11pupils from St Ambrose Barlow RC High School spent the day with Alan Birch, extending their GCSE coursework into print. Drawings and watercolour studies formed the basis for a series of engravings, collage prints, relief prints and mono prints. All pupils were happy with their work, many creating 8 prints. "Thank you so much
- [Handmade print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/handmade-print/) - Recent handmade sessions, programmed at the Whitworth on Friday afternoons have seen participants working on a variety of print techniques. Using the Althea McNeish exhibition as inspiration, artists have used relief printing , mono printing and printing from natural forms to produce a range of vibrant and colourful prints. Printer Alan Birch has guided artists
- [Radcliffe works.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/radcliffe-works/) - Artists from Prospect Studio spent an enjoyable morning with photographer Andy Marshall on a fact finding tour of Radcliffe. Artists looked at the medieval buildings and green, a tour of the centre, and a stroll through post industrial areas. Artists will use the tour to inspire prints which will hopefully lead to an exhibition in
- [St George's Print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/st-georges-print/) - Year 3 pupils from St George's Primary School in Bolton spent an enjoyable day, working on engravings and relief prints with Alan Birch. Pupils worked from the drawings of Henry Moore for their engravings and used the subject of landscape for their relief prints. Over 120 prints and drawings were produced and pupils kept their
- [Safe as Houses](https://alanbirch.co.uk/safe-as-houses/) - Members of the Safe as Houses project spent the day at Prospect Studio in Rawtenstall. .All the group who have experienced homelessness in the past, produced drawings which were then taken into engraving and collage. For most of the group this was their first taste of printing and hopefully they will be exhibiting their prints
- [Plymouth Grove print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/plymouth-grove-print/) - Year 3 pupils from Plymouth Grove Primary School made their first trip out since the pandemic and enjoyed printing at the Whitworth. Working from the textiles of Walter Crane and William Morris, pupils engraved printing plates with nails. These were inked with water based inks and printed on a small portable press. Some rich tonal
- [Etched lino](https://alanbirch.co.uk/etched-lino/) - Artist Karen Vine ran an experimental printmaking day at Prospect Studio. Printmakers were introduced to the technique of etched lino. The technique which uses resists and caustic soda produces some excellent results. It is an expressive medium which lends itself to landscape images. If anyone is interested we intend to run another session in the
- [Outwood Academy print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/outwood-academy-print/) - Year 11 pupils from Outwood Academy spent the day working with Alan Birch , producing a range of relief prints, collographs and engravings to enhance their GCSE coursework. ideas from their coursework were used to transform into prints. The pupils applied themselves to the task in hand and produced some excellent prints Prints from Year
- [St Johns Primary print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/st-johns-primary-print/) - Year 4 pupils from St John Bosco Primary School explored the textile collection at The Whitworth with Alan. They produced sheets of sketches from which they produced some excellent relief prints. The vibrant colours of the water based inks, rolled over textured wallpapers , enhanced the quality of the prints. "Your workshop was great and
- [Into University](https://alanbirch.co.uk/into-university/) - Year 6 pupils from East Manchester came to The Whitworth to work with Alan Birch. pupils worked from shapes found in the textile pieces in the gallery. Using textured wallpapers they produced some interesting and creative prints. The sessions gave pupils an insight into life at Manchester University. Relief prints produced by Year 6 at
- [New Prospect  prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-prospect-prints-3/) - Artists at the studio have been busy over the last few months producing new prints. Here are a selection of some of them. Etchings and aquatints, linocuts, collographs and mono prints have been printed . For more information contact alan through the website. Prints by members of Prospect Studios. #prospectstudios #alanbirch #printing classes # adult
- [Surface printing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/surface-printing/) - Members of the Handmade group worked with Alan Birch at the Whitworth creating relief prints and surface prints using plants and organic matter . The plants, some brought into the studio and a few from the garden were placed on inked plates then covered with paper and run through the press. The pressure left impressions
- [Mezzotint](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mezzotint/) - Printmaker Stuart Brocklehurst spent the weekend at Prospect , working with a group of artists on mezzotint plates. The small copper plates were rocked by Stuart to create a heavily indented plate. Artists then spent the weekend burnishing the plates, producing a series of proofs . Towards the end of the weekend artists printed their
- [Prospect prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-prints-3/) - Artists have been busy at Prospect over the last couple of months, producing a range of works. Many artists have been selected for exhibitions, sold works and progressed to Masters courses. If you wish to get a taste of printing, contact Alan through the website. Below are works by Karen Vine, Sheila Blair, Pete Cave,
- [Collograph weekend](https://alanbirch.co.uk/collograph-weekend/) - Artists from Hebden Bridge, spent a productive weekend at Prospect Studio, exploring the medium of collograph. Acrylic gels, wallpaper, gesso and tile grout were used to create heavily incised plates. These were inked in a variety of ways to create rich prints. A brilliant weekend saw over 30 plates printed . Excellent results.
- [Queens Mill Creations](https://alanbirch.co.uk/queens-mill-creations/) - Families spent an enjoyable afternoon printing relief prints using wallpaper. Artists drew inspiration from their tour around the Mill, drawing shapes ranging from the machinery and objects used in the creation of fabrics. Visitors from Canada and Burnley left the museum with a range of images, all patterned, rich and colourful.
- [Handmade Printing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/handmade-printing-3/) - Age Friendly Printing Alan Birch spent 2 creative afternoons working with the Handmade group at The Whitworth. The group which meets on Friday afternoons explored lino printing and engraving . The Jigsaw lino prints drew inspiration from works in the Whitworth and the engravings were based on the surrealist concept " The Exquisite Corpse ".
- [George House Trust](https://alanbirch.co.uk/george-house-trust/) - Members of George House Trust visited the Whitworth to spend the afternoon printing with Alan Birch. Using the wallpaper exhibition as as inspiration, artists combined shapes and patterns generated from relief wallpaper with collaged images from magazines to create mixed media pieces. The prints were highly personal and made for level discussions about the content.
- [Open House Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/open-house-prints/) - Members of the Hand made group, who meet regularly at The Whitworth , worked with printmaker Alan Birch to create prints based on the the wallpapers from the Open House exhibition. The exhibition which features wallpapers from the last 50 years, shows how wallpaper can trigger memories and feelings. Artists brought in wallpapers from home
- [Handmade prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/handmade-prints-2/) - Members of the Handmade group (who meet regularly at the Whitworth and on Zoom! ) worked with artists Alan Birch, developing their work into print. The textile exhibition was used to base a series of engravings on whilst the wallpaper exhibition inspired a series of reduction lino prints. The group meets on a Friday afternoon.
- [Pop Art Printing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pop-art-printing/) - Year 5 pupils from Brandwood Community Primary School in Bolton, were inspired by the work of Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein to produce some excellent engravings and relief prints. Using metallic card for their engravings, wallpaper for relief prints and words made from wooden letters, the pupils worked diligently to develop ideas. Some excellent works
- [New prints from Prospect Studios](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-prints-from-prospect-studios/) - Printers have been busy in May printing new works at Prospect Studio. Recent fine art graduate Jasper Howard has been working on mono prints.Maria Murtagh has been developing her life drawings into a series of mono prints. Caroline Johnson has been collecting discarded drink cans and surface printing them with collage. Other works have seen
- [Amazonian prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/amazonian-prints/) - Year 4 pupils from Leyland Primary School, spent an enjoyable and creative day with printmaker Alan Birch. Amazonian creatures formed the basis for their drawings which were later transformed into engravings and printed using Alan's portable press. Pupils used water based inks and enjoyed cleaning the ink off their plates and turning the wheel of
- [GCSE printmaking](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gcse-printmaking-2/) - Year 11 pupils from Wellington School in Timperley spent 2 days immersed in the world of printmaking. Pupils threw themselves into the process producing over 500 prints on the theme of seaside and insects. A diverse range of techniques was explored; engraving, chine college, relief printing. mono printing and mixed media prints. The pupils demonstrated
- [Sacred Heart prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/sacred-heart-prints/) - Year 2 pupils from Sacred Heart RC Primary School explored the world of relief printing , looking at the work of Orla Kiely and 1960's wallpaper. Using textured wallpapers to create relief printing blocks , the pupils really threw themselves into the spirit of printmaking, inking and printing their creations using water-based inks.
- [Hampson prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/hampson-prints/) - Year 5 and 6 pupils from Blackrod Primary School were inspired by the lino prints of Roger Hampson during workshops in March. The prints which were displayed at school , formed the basis of some excellent drawings which were later turned into poly prints and engraving. Working with artist Alan Birch, each pupil inked and
- [Landmark Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/landmark-prints/) - Year 1 pupils from Websters Primary School in Manchester were introduced to the world of print at the Whitworth. Pupils explored the landmarks of Whitworth Park and the route from their school to Manchester. After making drawings, poly prints were made and printed , with all pupils inking and printing their own prints , using
- [Manchester Open](https://alanbirch.co.uk/manchester-open-2/) - Great to see the work of Simon Rogerson, Claire Groves, Jo Beggs and Kay McIntosh in the exhibition at Home. Good to know that all their hard work has been recognised!
- [St John's Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/st-johns-prints/) - Brilliant work by the pupils from St Johns Primary School in Longsight. The workshops in conjunction with the Whitworth involved 180 pupils from Reception to Year 2 and referenced the work of Kandinsky, Lucienne Day and Pop Art . Joint prints were also printed at Prospect Studio.It was great to see children and staff getting
- [GCSE prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gcse-prints/) - Students from Hathershaw College in Oldham, developed their drawings into print with artist Alan Birch. Students explored the technique of drypoint, collage and mixed media prints. Some excellent prints were produced. " Thanks for a great session! " Louise Mills . Curriculum Leader - Expressive Arts Hathershaw College prints.
- [Return to print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/return-to-print-2/) - Members of George House Trust in Manchester, spent a morning printing with artist Alan Birch. Having already had a tour of the Whitworth , members looked at printed works from the collection. Some excellent engravings were produced looking at the works of David Hockney, Aubrey Beardsley and others. George House Trust prints
- [Staff prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/staff-prints/) - Teachers from Catholic secondary schools in Manchester spent the day printing with artist Alan Birch. As part of the Mancep Training Day at Xavarian College, teachers explored a range of printing techniques including engraving, nonprinting, relief printing and collage. Hopefully these techniques will be seen in the classroom. Mancep Prints
- [Our Lady's Print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/our-ladys-print/) - Year 5 pupils from Our Ladys and St Anselms Primary School produced some excellent prints based on the work of Roy Lichtenstein. The layered prints involved drawings, engravings, relief printing and text. I was very impressed by their drawing skills. Our Lady's and St Anselms prints based on Roy Lichtenstein.
- [Prospect Printers.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/6860-2/) - Printmakers have been busy at Prospect Studios in the last month. Great work by Sheila Blair, Tony Robinson,Pete Cave, Maria Murtagh and Caroline Johnson. Lino prints, collographs, sugar lift, etching and collage. Prints from Prospect Studios
- [Prospect Coffee Morning](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-coffee-morning/) - Visitors to Prospect Studios raised at least £160 for Macmillan during the Open Studio event . 9 members of the print class, came up trumps again baking delicious cakes and Sheila Cave once again excelled herself. Its a great Open Studio tradition and is now expected.
- [20 20 Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/20-20-prints-2/) - Once again, Prospect printmakers took part in the 20 20 print exchange organised by Hot Bed Press. 15 printmakers produced an edition of 25 prints and received a collection of 20 prints from print studios in the UK and beyond. This is the 15th time prints have taken part and once again ha great variety
- [Hawthorn at Prospect](https://alanbirch.co.uk/hawthorn-at-prospect/) - Hawthorn Printmakers came to show their products as Prospect Printmakers before Christmas. Michael showed his range of rollers tools and inks to members of the group. Printers were particularly impressed by his range of inks, especially his silver and gold pigments. Michael shows his stock to Carolyn Murphy, Mel McMinn and Peter Cave.
- [Prospect Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-prints-2/) - Artists have been busy producing prints in the run up to Christmas. Experimental prints have been the order of the day with artists working on mixed media prints, multi plate prints and Chine colle pieces. Works by Ruth Bradshaw Sheila Blair Caroline Johnson Kay Mcintosh Pete Cave Karen Vine.
- [St Chrysostom Print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/st-chrysostom-print/) - Alan Birch spent 3 days working with pupils from St Chrysostoms Primary School in Manchester. Working in conjunction with the Whitworth , pupils created relief prints looking at Morris, Pop Art and Kandinsky. The attitude of the Reception, Year 1 and 2 pupils was excellent and some great individual prints as well as joint pieces
- [Prospect prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-prints/) - Artists have been busy working at Prospect Studios over the summer, producing prints for folios and exhibition. A diverse range of work has been produced including drypoints, chine colle prints, lino cuts and etchings. For many artists their experience at Prospect Studios has been their first taste of print. Ella Cole Jill Randall Jill RandallMaria
- [Open Spaces 800](https://alanbirch.co.uk/open-spaces-800/) - Alan Birch and Jill Randall were selected to work on OPENSPACES 800 in Germany . The project celebrated the 800 the anniversary of Bocholt near Düsseldorf .14 artists from India and Europe were in residence in the towns museums and galleries. Alan and Jill worked with residents, visitors and schoolchildren creating a wall of over
- [Connected Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/connected-prints/) - St. Peter’s primary school from Waterfoot were the first school to visit the newly refurbished Whittaker Museum in Rawtenstall. All pupils from the school took part in printing workshops with Alan Birch working from the Connected Cloth exhibition show, part of the British Textile Biennial .Pupils and some teachers produced some excellent drawings and 4
- [2020 Prints at Prospect.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/2020-prints-at-prospect/) - Printmakers from Prospect Studios have once again taken part in the 2020 print exchange organised by Hot Bed Press. Members have been busy printing their editions of 25 prints in a variety of media which will be exhibited in this country and abroad. Caroline Johnson Carolyn Murphy Chris & Loraine Waites Ella Cole Janet Grierson
- [Rossendale Art Trail 2021.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/rossendale-art-trail-2021/) - Prospect Studio is taking part in the Rossendale Art Trail, which showcases art in the valley. Prospect Studios will be open on the weekend of 13th and 14th November from 11a.m to 5 p.m. Prospect Studios will be giving visitors the chance to enjoy cakes and coffee as they view the work on show, in
- [Surreal Birds.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/surreal-birds/) - Families spent an enjoyable and creative day working with printmaker Alan Birch. Referencing the work of Iranian printmaker Mohammad Barrangi, who was exhibiting his work in the space, participants created their own fantastical birds using wallpaper and collage. The workshops were held in conjunction with the West Yorkshire Print Workshop.
- [Back to print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/back-to-print-2/) - Year 9 students from Chorlton High School, spent a creative day working with printmaker Alan Birch. A large collection of intaglio, relief and chine college prints were produced , some which may find their way into GCSE folders. Hopefully students will use their experience to produce their own prints. " Thank you for the wonderful
- [Prints of nature.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prints-of-nature/) - Year 5 pupils from St Kentigerns Primary School in Manchester, lifted their spirits working with artist Alan Birch in conjunction with the Whitworth in Manchester. The pupils looked at resident wildlife, including trees, birds, animals and insects. Some sleepy and crestfallen pupils turned up the day after Englands loss in the Euros, but soon rallied
- [Morris prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/morris-prints/) - Pupils from Our Lady and St Anselms Primary school in Whitworth spent a creative day working with Alan on the theme of William Morris. Pupils looked at the work of Morris , producing drawings of the shapes found in his work. These natural forms were then engraved into card plates and printed using a portable
- [Collograph prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/collograph-prints/) - As artists return to Prospect Studios to develop their work into print, a collograph session was organised to demonstrate the flexibility and creative freedoms afforded by the technique. Artists spent one day creating their plates and the second day printing the plates. The theme for the prints was landscape and some excellent , dynamic prints
- [Artists return.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/artists-return/) - Over the last two weeks, printers have returned to work at Prospect Studio. Small groups wearing PPE have been producing some wonderful prints. Etchings, drypoints and relief prints have been produced with artists showing their creativity. The sessions also saw Gracie a GCSE pupil, printing her skeleton . Its great to have them back. prints
- [Return to print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/return-to-print/) - It was great to return to the classroom, working with pupils from St Peters RC Primary School in Waterfoot. Year 5 pupils produced some excellent relief prints based on the African artist Angu Walters. Hi Alan, thank you for your wonderful and kind feedback.The children loved your workshop this afternoon and created such unique pieces
- [Monsters in Lockdown](https://alanbirch.co.uk/monsters-in-lockdown/) - Recent prints produced in response to the current pandemic, shows how a range of monsters past and present, spent their period of lockdown. Household chores, gardening and home schooling, activities and behaviour only too familiar to us, fill their time as they are forced to social distance and stay at home! The series employs a
- [Bridestones Revisited.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/bridestones-revisited/) - Artist Maria Murtagh has been busy creating a whole series of collograph prints based on the Bridestones rock formations outside Todmorden. Maria from Todmorden has been using a whole host of materials for her plates . Plywood, mount board and aluminium have been employed together with carborundum, gesso, PVA, wallpaper and adhesive tapes to create
- [Sugar lift sessions.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/sugar-lift-sessions/) - A select group of printers at Prospect Studio spent a day working on the process of sugar lift. The method whereby varying tonal areas are created by opening up a pre-aquatinted plate with the use of hot water, was employed by Picasso, Roualt and more recently William Kentridge. Some excellent prints were produced by Carolyn
- [Cool collographs.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/cool-collographs/) - Members of Prospect print group produced some excellent collographs , using a wide variety of media. Plywood, aluminium, mount board, and old 45 inch singles were used as plates with a host of material used to construct their plates. Carborundum, tape, gesso, wallpaper, emulsion, and found objects were employed to open up a varied visual
- [Landscape Abstraction.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/landscape-abstraction/) - For the final session of the Handmade art group run in conjunction with The Whitworth, artists looked at the work of Roger Hilton and Kandinsky. Personal photographs were used to base their abstract pieces on, using acrylics and watercolour. Short videos were used to show how forms and shapes in landscape can be broken up
- [Festive prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/festive-prints-3/) - Members of the Handmade Art Group at the Whitworth , produced their own original Christmas Cards with artist Alan Birch. The zoom sessions featured short videos and instructions, followed avidly by artists at home. Some excellent works were produced as usual.
- [The return of Print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/the-return-of-print/) - Printers have returned in restricted numbers to Prospect, following stringent restrictions. Collograph , etching and relief prints have flown off the press as artists print their editions. Good to see them back! Great prints by Ruth Bradshaw, Caroline Johnson, Katie Blair and Janet Grierson.
- [Homemade Handmade with the Whitworth.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/homemade-handmade-with-the-whitworth/) - More printmaking sessions took place over Zoom with over 10 artists producing lino prints and texture prints. The quality of the work was as usual; exceptional. Handmade members display their work.
- [Good to be back!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/good-to-be-back/) - Year 7 pupils from Bedford High School produced some amazing tonal engravings to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Turnpike. It was a great feeling to be back in the classroom. Great engravings by Year 7 pupils
- [Polyprinting with Handmade with the Whitworth](https://alanbirch.co.uk/polyprinting-with-handmade-with-the-whitworth/) - For the second Handmade session with the Whitworth, artists worked at home with poly print to produce expressive prints. Once again brilliant work by all. Expressive polyprints by the Handmade group.
- [Handmade on Zoom](https://alanbirch.co.uk/handmade-on-zoom/) - its great to be back working with members of the Handmade group in conjunction with The Whitworth. The sessions delivered through Zoom, have shown how creative and resourceful artists can be. Excellent mono prints! Looking forward to returning to the gallery. Thanks to Claire for organising session. Great mono prints by Handmade group.
- [20-20 Print exchange](https://alanbirch.co.uk/20-20-print-exchange-2/) - 15 members of Prospect Studios have taken part in the annual print exchange organised by Hot Bed Press in Manchester. Each artists produces an edition of prints on paper 20cm square which are sent to the Manchester studio and in return receive a box of 20 prints from around the world. This is the 12th
- [Back to print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/back-to-print/) - Sunday classes in August, 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd August. Classes are up and running at Prospect Studio with limited numbers and restrictive safety measures in place. I am also planning drawing sessions and a collograph weekend in August. For more information see the workshop section on website.
- [Lockdown Saints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/lockdown-saints/) - Alan Birch has been working on a topical series of saints during the Pandemic. Inspired by Catholic media saints often seen in churches, the saints reflect recent global events. The massive effect on peoples behaviour, health and has a been used to create these saints. The saints started with St Coronus and document the developments
- [Saint Coronus as Saviour!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/saint-coronus-as-saviour/) - With the world under lockdown and facing an uncertain future, I have been requested to resurrect the Later-Day Saint series to reflect current issues. Saint Coronus has materialised in print and gives us hope whilst illustrating through symbols, the concerns and priorities of society. Never before have toilet rolls, pasta, Dolmio, and hand sanitiser occupied
- [In good company.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/in-good-company/) - Really please and amused to see my portrait amongst great figures from the art world on worksheets at Marple Hall High School. Pupils chose a figure to illustrate prior to my visit for a series of workshops. Maybe I should grow a Dali moustache. Some great prints were produced and the pupils and staff were
- [Marple Hall High print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/marple-hall-high-print/) - Alan Birch with all year 10 pupils at Marple Hall High School in February and March, producing excellent prints. Over 120 pupils worked tirelessly with Alan, producing a wonderful collection of prints inspired by animals and birds. Some pupils used college and relief printing to embellish their work. The prints will be used to enhance
- [Exchange artists.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/exchange-artists/) - Students from Manchester University spent the afternoon printing with artist Alan Birch. The international students took the work of Grayson Perry as their inspiration, looking at his etchings in the Whitworth , Manchester. Artists created drawings from his prints and later engraved their own creations , using a portable press to print them. " The
- [Grayson Perry prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/grayson-perry-prints/) - Members of the Hand Made art group at the Whitworth, were inspired by the etching " Maps of Nowhere" by Grayson Perry to produce their own medical map of the United Kingdom. Printers used images in the pint ( currently on display at the Whitworth ) or images from a range of news stories and
- [Cardinal Newman prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/cardinal-newman-prints-2/) - Photography students from Cardinal Newman College in Preston spent 2 days working with printmaker Alan Birch in January. The students produced some excellent engravings on perspex , and made full use of chine college and other printmaking techniques. Over 60 students took part in the workshops and the quality of the work was excellent. "
- [Manchester Open](https://alanbirch.co.uk/manchester-open/) - Several members of Prospect Printmakers were selected for the Manchester Open at Home. Neil Robinson, Claire Groves, Sadie and Simon Rogerson all had print chosen and Jo Beggs was shortlisted for an award for her etchings of buildings. This was the first open success for many artists and some artists have sold their works. Lets
- [Arctic prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/arctic-prints/) - Year 2 pupils from St Kentigerns School , spent a creative day at the Whitworth Gallery in Manchester. Their day included working from the works in the art gallery and working with printmaker Alan Birch. Alan showed the pupils his work and demonstrated the many forms of printing, Pupils then went to look at the
- [Studio nights](https://alanbirch.co.uk/studio-nights/) - Teachers from Greater Manchester and beyond spent a creative evening after school at the Whitworth creating a range of prints. Referencing the exhibition of works by Cezanne and the works in the wallpaper gallery artists worked on relief prints, engravings and collages. Working with Alan Birch, artists were shown his work and were given many
- [Primary prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/primary-prints-2/) - Year 3 and 4 pupils from St Paul's Primary School in Rawtenstall explored the natural history collection of the Whittaker in Rawtenstall to produce wonderful drawings and engravings over 2 days. The works will be used on their school topic of Charles Darwin. In the afternoon relief prints were produced using the work of William
- [Graphic prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/graphic-prints/) - Graphic students from Cardinal Newman College in Preston were introduced to the world of print by artist Alan Birch in January. Over 60 students took part in the workshops really pushing the limits of printmaking, engraving, collaging, cutting and overprinting to produce over 350 prints. The work produced was excellent and certainly maintained the creative
- [Reaching the Heights!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/reaching-the-heights/) - Year 10 pupils from Marsden Heights Community College in Nelson spent the day working with printer Alan Birch, producing prints to enhance their GCSE coursework. A large variety of prints were produced by 2 classes during the day working on themes of natural forms, sweets and artists work. Tonal engravings, relief prints and the occasional mixed
- [Dave Pearson prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/dave-pearson-prints-2/) - Alan Birch spent a few days inking up the etching plates of artist Dave Pearson in Valley Studios. Using their large printing press Alan was able to print the large plates on Fabriano paper. The prints printed for the Dave Pearson Trust in Haslingden will be exhibited around the country and some have already found
- [Whittaker Christmas](https://alanbirch.co.uk/whittaker-christmas/) - Visitors to the Whittaker in Rawtenstall were able to create their own Christmas cards during a workshop with printmaker Alan Birch. A very creative afternoon resulted in some excellent cards being produced. Imagery ranged from traditional images such as candles, with other prints featuring more contemporary themes such as MP Jeremy Hunt. Techniques such as
- [Coffee, cake and culture.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/coffee-cake-and-culture-7/) - Artist Alan Birch worked with visitors from the education department of Knowsley Safari Park and Manchester hospitals as part of the coffee cake and culture programme at the Whitworth during November and December. Visitors explored relief printing with wallpaper and relief printing using the wallpaper show as research. The visitors from Knowsley intend to use
- [20 20 Vision](https://alanbirch.co.uk/20-20-vision/) - In the autumn, artist Alan Birch worked with the Young Creative group at the Turnpike in Leigh as part of their 20 20 Vision programme. The project which sees creative practitioners working across Wigan and Leigh enables young people to involve themselves fully in the activities. Looking at the future the group which meets after
- [Penmon prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/penmon-prints-2/) - Artists from Prospect Studio spent an enjoyable ay at Penmon Point inspired by the setting of the lighthouse and Puffin Island. Some great prints were produced by the group, including drypoints, relief prints and chine college works. The prints perfectly captured the atmosphere of this beautiful spot.
- [20 20 Print exchange](https://alanbirch.co.uk/20-20-print-exchange/) - Members of Prospect Studio have been busy printing their editions of prints for the 20 20 print exchange organised by Hot Bed Press. Prospect Studio has taken part in the exchange for over 10 years and members have swapped prints with artists from Russia, Iceland , Europe and many studios throughout the UK.
- [Handmade.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/handmade/) - Members of the Hand Made group from the Whitworth Art Gallery have been busy working on drawings during the early weeks in November to coincide with the Big Draw . The works which involved artists using a variety of media to explore the themes of natural forms and patterns in design, certainly reflect the
- [Prospect printers](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-printers/) - Members of Prospect Printmakers have been busy working on new prints over the last few weeks , with many members showing their work throughout the north west and beyond in galleries and print fairs and beyond. Members have also been taking part in the 20 20 print exchange organised by Hot Bed Press and preparing
- [Brittania printmakers.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/brittania-printmakers/) - Year 3 pupils from Brittania Primary School spent a creative day working with printmaker Alan Birch at The Whittaker in Rawtenstall. Pupils produced some excellent drawings working from the collection before turning these into engravings which they printed on Alan's portable press. In the afternoon pupils explored the world of relief printing using textured wallpapers
- [Coffee, Cake and Culture](https://alanbirch.co.uk/coffee-cake-and-culture-6/) - Alan Birch Worked with the Coffee, Cake And Culture group at The Whitworth in Manchester, producing colourful and vibrant relief prints and monoprints. Participants worked from the wallpaper exhibition currently on display.The sessions are aimed at making culture accessible for anyone living with a physical or mental health need, and their families and support systems. https://www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk/whats-on/events/coffeecakeandculture/.
- [Richard Harris Art Collection](https://alanbirch.co.uk/richard-harris-art-collection/) - During the summer, I visited Richard Harris the art collector in Chicago. Richard has been a collector of art for many years and a selection of his vast collection was exhibited at The Welcome Trust in London a few years ago. He has a particular interest in works highlighting Death and War, and owns works
- [Printing from the garden.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-from-the-garden/) - Year 9 pupils from Ashton on Mersey School, spent a day at The Whitworth, drawing and printing with artist Alan Birch. The pupils produced some excellent drawings from the Whitworth garden and later transformed these into engravings before printing them on a portable printing press. A few pupils added abstract forms from the work of
- [Printing at the Mela](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-at-the-mela/) - Visitors to the Manchester Mega Mela , were able to get creative at the Arts and Crafts Marquee in Platt Fields in July . The annual event saw thousands of visitors take in the music, entertainments and creative activities. Alan Birch was working with Manchester Museum, creating engravings on the theme of The Lost Words
- [The Lost Words.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/the-lost-words-2/) - During the summer break, visitors to the Manchester Museum produced a range of relief prints based on the book by xxx . The book which illustrates words which have been omitted from the Children's Dictionary , provided the starting point for creative activities. Families drew silhouettes of their chosen birds, plants and animals on
- [Queens Mill Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/queens-mill-prints/) - Families joined artist Alan Birch at Queens Street Mill in Burnley, producing theft own relief prints based on the machinery at the Mill. The Mill which is the last surviving 19th century steam powered weaving mill, is open Thursday to Saturday, and children and parents alike used wallpaper to create shapes and patterns found in
- [Forthcoming class dates.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/forthcoming-class-dates/) - Next class dates are Sunday the 14th July, Monday 15th July and Saturday the 27th, August dates are 3rd, 4th and 5th. Monday classes start again on the 22nd July 6-8.30 pm. Interested parties please contact Alan.
- [New prints from Prospect](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-prints-from-prospect-2/) - Printmakers have been busy at Prospect Studios. With exhibitions at Bury and in Waterfoot and print fairs at Bury art Gallery and Helmshore Textile Museum, a large number of prints have been made. With some newcomers coming to classes including Jo Morton who journeys down from Berwick, the presses have been worked hard. Here are
- [Student printers.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/student-printers/) - Students from Manchester Metropolitan University attended classes at Prospect Studio, producing some excellent work. Students were able to experiment with various techniques and media, including etching, aquatint, relief and chine colle. Hopefully more students will develop their work into print.
- [Prospect Printers at Bury](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-printers-at-bury/) - 30 artists who currently attend printmaking classes at Prospect Studio in Waterfoot, Lancashire, showed their prints at Bury Art Gallery. The works based on the theme of Pennines and Land covered a range of techniques including etching, aquatint, drypoint, collograph, gelli print, lino and relief printing. For many of the artists this was their first
- [Andean Textile prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/andean-textile-prints/) - Members of Handmade produced an extensive amount of prints based on the textiles from the Andes currently on show at the Whitworth. Using patterned and textured wallpapers artists cutout and tore shapes which were then inked and printed at the Whitworth. The group who meet every Friday afternoon get to experience a wide variety of
- [Thomas Holford Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/thomas-holford-prints-2/) - Over 50 Year 10 pupils from Bishop Thomas Holford College worked with artist Alan Birch producing engravings and collage prints to enhance their GCSE coursework. Alan brought his portable etching press and water based inks into school and showed his work to pupils. Pupils then used their coursework from which to develop drawings for prints
- [Printing from  Andean Textiles](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-from-andean-textiles/) - Year 7 pupils from Ullswater College spent a creative morning working with printmaker Alan Birch. Using the current show of Andean textiles as a starting point, pupils produced line drawings based on the patterns and shapes found in the pieces. From these drawings, pupils produced some colourful and textured prints using wallpaper and water based
- [Handmade printing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/handmade-printing-2/) - Members of the Handmade group who meet on Friday afternoons at the Whitworth in Manchester, have been working with artist Alan Birch, producing some excellent prints. A charity of print techniques have been explored including engravings, based on Manchester buildings, Lino cuts based on the exhibition of the work of John Ruskin, and relief prints
- [African masks.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/african-masks/) - Year 1 pupils from Twelve Apostles primary school in Leigh , spent a creative morning with printmaker Alan Birch. To enhance their work on Africa, children looked at the theme of African masks, using textured wallpapers and card to create their own masks. Once pupils cut out their shapes from wallpaper, they inked these and
- [Musical morning](https://alanbirch.co.uk/musical-morning/) - As part of a family day at Touchstones in Rochdale, families were invited to make drawings from 60's musical equipment. Together with a silent disco, badge making and craft activities, children and their parents were able to spend an entire morning in the museum. For the printing, families produced drawings which they later turned into
- [Greek prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/greek-prints/) - Year 4 pupils from Haslingden Primary school visited the Whittaker Museum in Rawtenstall to look at the Natural history section and to work with printmaker Alan Birch. To compliment their studies of Ancient Greece , pupils produced drawings from images of ancient greek olympic games. These drawings were then used to produce engravings, which they
- [Autism Friendly Session.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/autism-friendly-session/) - Early morning visitors were invited to the museum for an autism friendly session at Manchester Museum. Alan Birch brought his portable press in and families drew from museum objects before transforming these into relief and intaglio prints. Participants made great use of having the museum to themselves, and produced some great work.
- [The Lost Words](https://alanbirch.co.uk/the-lost-words/) - Families coming to the Manchester Museum over half term were given the opportunity to print with artist Alan Birch. Over 3 afternoon sessions over 200 prints were produced as part of the activity week.Artist Alan Birch used his portable press to print detailed illustrations. Working from the theme of The Lost Words By Robert MacFarlane
- [Arabian Nights printing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/arabian-nights-printing/) - Year 4 Pupils from Leyland Community Primary School spent a creative day working with printmaker Alan Birch. Working in conjunction with the Turnpike Gallery in Leigh , Alan introduced pupils to engraving and some relief prints. Pupils initially produced drawings on the theme of the stories of the Arabian Nights which were then transformed into
- [Helmshore Summer Craft Fair](https://alanbirch.co.uk/helmshore-summer-craft-fair/) - Prospect Printmakers showed their work at Helmshore Textile Museum in late June, showcasing the work of over 10 members work. The prints on display included etchings, drypoints, lino cuts , mono prints and collographs complimented by a range of cards. The day was bust with Stacksteads band entertaining visitors.
- [Afrojam](https://alanbirch.co.uk/afrojam/) - As part of the Afrojam Festival, artist Alan Birch joined the team from Manchester Museum in Whitworth Park. Adults and children were given the opportunity to print posters based on African images. Using woodblocks, wallpaper and text blocks a whole range of bold posters were made. Members of the Manchester Museum team showed visitors objects
- [Waterfoot Wakes Art Trail](https://alanbirch.co.uk/waterfoot-wakes-art-trail/) - As part of the Waterfoot wakes weekend celebrations this weekend, members of Prospect studios will be displaying their prints in local shops. This informal exhibition involves over 13 shops and features the work of 15 artists, some of whom live in Waterfoot. The event organised by the Boo! coincides with parades, talks, there and a
- [Silent Auction and Talk](https://alanbirch.co.uk/silent-auction-and-talk/) - Printmakers Chris and Loraine Waites will be discussing their practice at Bury Art Gallery this Saturday 6th July. They have attending classes for over 25 years and have their own studio in their garden. They have organised a silent auction with sales going towards local charities. See below for details.
- [Community Day at Manchester Museum.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/community-day-at-manchester-museum/) - Despite the inclement weather , over 100 prints were produced as part of the Community Day at Manchester University in June. Artist Alan Birch was base with the team from Manchester Museum , using his portable press to print detailed illustrations. Working from the theme of The Lost Words By Robert MacFarlane and Jackie Morris
- [The Art of Invention.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/the-art-of-invention/) - Year 3 pupils from St Peters Primary School in Accrington spent a day printing with artist Alan Birch. Pupils based their drawings on the theme of inventions, a subject they have been studying in class. Alan talked about the invention of printing, demonstrating the printing of text and woodcuts, before the pupils produced excellent drawings
- [Plymouth Grove prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/plymouth-grove-prints/) - Year 2 and 3 pupils from Plymouth Grove primary School, spent 4 mornings working with artist Alan Birch. The pupils who have been investigating the world of print as part of their coursework based their work on shapes from the wallpaper collection currently on show. Shapes found in the wallpaper of Nikki St Phalle and
- [Holcolmbe Brook print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/holcolmbe-brook-print/) - Year 3 pupils from Holcombe Brook Primary School visited the Whitaker Museum in Rawtenstall , working from the museum collection and producing prints with Alan Birch. Pupils were shown around the collection producing drawings and engravings of the objects in the collection. Pupils also managed to experiment with relief prints based on plants in the
- [GCSE Printmaking](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gcse-printmaking/) - Over 70 GCSE and A level students from Ambrose Barlow RC HIGH School in Salford spent a day producing engravings and relief prints to enhance their coursework. Working with tutor Bernadette Furey and printmaker Alan Birch the students used a variety of techniques including chine colle to hopefully improve their grades.
- [Saintly prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/saintly-prints/) - Alan Birch worked with asylum seekers at Manchester Museum, introducing them to the world of printmaking. The group who have been following a course at the museum, with the intention of finding employment, produced some excellent work based on Alans work of contemporary saints.
- [Ramsbottom Relief prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ramsbottom-relief-prints/) - Alan Birch ran a relief printing course for Bury Adult Education at Ramsbottom Library. The artists , many who had not printed for many years if at all , produced some excellent work. Hopefully other workshops will take place in the summer term. Watch out for details.
- [New prints at Prospect.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-prints-at-prospect-3/) - Artists have been busy for the past few months preparing prints for an exhibition at Bury Art Gallery in May. Many artists have been exhibiting their work in numerous venues. Hopefully Peter Cave will be showing in Germany, Cate Ferns showing as part of Green Walk in Whalley Range, Mark Whyatt showing work as part
- [Mezzotint at Prospect Studio](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mezzotint-at-prospect-studio/) - Printmaker Stuart Brocklehurst was guest artist at Prospect Studio , showing regular printmakers the art of Mezzotint. Printmakers spent a weekend developing plates and printing proofs at various stages. The layout intensive process produces sumptuous tonal prints . The plan is for Stuart to visit again later in year. Anyone interested contact Alan.
- [Exploring print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/exploring-print/) - Small groups of pupils at Leyland Methodist Primary in Preston, worked with artist Alan Birch producing a range of prints. Pupils explored mono printing, relief printing and engraving producing small collections of prints. Hopefully Alan , working in conjunction with The Turnpike in Leigh, will revisit the school in the summer.
- [Cardinal Newman prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/cardinal-newman-prints/) - Students from Cardinal Newman College produced some excellent prints working with artists Alan Birch. Using a portable press brought in by Alan, students produced a wonderful collection of drypoints on perspex, in some cases using collage to enhance their images. Once the plates are engraved students can use the plates to create a unique body of
- [Exploring Goya](https://alanbirch.co.uk/exploring-goya/) - international students from Manchester University spent an afternoon working with artist Alan Birch at the Whitworth in Manchester. Artists drew from the works of Goya, before using these drawings to engrave on card plates in the learning studio. Artists engraved their prints and then printed them using water based etching ink and a portable etching
- [Bury prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/bury-prints-2/) - As part of the exhibition " Print-A catalyst for social change " Printers from Prospect Studio ran a successful programme of workshops covering a wide range of printmaking techniques. Alan Birch showed artists the potential of intaglio and lino cutting whilst other artists looked into monoprinting , gelli printing and relief printing. Prospect printmakers will
- [Year 2 Arctic prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/year-2-arctic-prints/) - Year 2 pupils from St Ketigerns Primary School in Manchester spent a day at the Whitworth in Manchester working with artist Alan Birch. Pupils had been working on the theme of the Arctic and used their knowledge to produce a range of relief prints, inspired by the blues and colours found in the work of
- [Handmade at The Whitworth 2](https://alanbirch.co.uk/handmade-at-the-whitworth/) - Members of the Hand Made art group of the Whitworth spent 5 weeks working with printmaker Alan Birch . Using the current exhibitions for inspiration, artists worked on a variety of techniques ranging from collograph and relief prints to lino cuts, engravings and chine college prints. Artists responded to the work of Hogarth producing their
- [New prints at Prospect](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-prints-at-prospect-2/) - Printers have been busy at Prospect Studios, producing new work for exhibitions. Etchings, aquatints and Relief prints have been created as Artists prepare for their show ay Longitude Gallery in Clitheroe. New members have been printing in a series of workshops held during the week.
- [Young Prospect Printers.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/young-prospect-printers/) - As part of the Open audio in 2018, Alan Birch invited children into the studio to try their hand at printmaking. The children worked with their parents and produced some excellent work, Bright colour and vivid, they and their parents loved the work. No doubt it is now on the wall at home! Future sessions
- [Touchstones Madness.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/touchstones-madness/) - A crazy afternoon was spent at Touchstones, Rochdale over half term . Various activities took place including printing, slime making and storytelling which pre-emptied the arrival of Halloween. Unbelievably 0ver 500 people came into the gallery. It was a crazily productive session. Over 140 prints were made by children and parents. A success for the
- [William Hulme Print!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/william-hulme-print/) - Year 10 pupils from William Hulme Grammar School spent the day printing with artist Alan Birch. Alan took his portable press, water based inks and all materials into school and pupils were able to create engravings, relief prints and collage prints. Some excellent prints were produced and these will be used to enhance GCSE coursework.
- [20 20 prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/20-20-prints/) - Members of Prospect Studio took part in the annual 2020 print exchange organised by Hot Bed Press in Manchester. 10 artists produced editions of 25 prints on paper 2o cm x 20 cm. These prints ranging from lino cuts to etchings and drypoints will be sent around the world. In exchange participants will each receive
- [Inspired by Goya.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/inspired-by-goya/) - Year 9 pupils from Chorton High School South spent the day at the Whitworth looking at the etchings and aquatints of Goya. They were amazed by the creativity and imagination in the work, and based their sketches on his work. Their drawings were used to produce drypoint engravings, which were inked and printed by the
- [Third Age Printers](https://alanbirch.co.uk/third-age-printers/) - Members of the University of the Third Age from the North west visited the Whitworth during October, to view the collections, be given a behind the scenes tour and try their hand at printmaking. Using the outstanding work of William Kentridge as a starting point, members produced drawings which were transformed into engravings and printed.
- [Night in the museum.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/night-in-the-museum/) - International students newly arrived in Manchester were welcomed into Manchester Museum to discover the collections, meet fellow students and try their hand at printing. Students were given small drypoint plates and made engravings based on objects in the museum. For many this was their first attempt at printing, and others re-acquainted themselves with the technique.
- [Hen Party Printing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/hen-part-printing/) - Alan Birch spent a creative morning working with a hen party from London. Artists came armed with photographs and images on a sea and coast theme, places and objects loved by the bride. Each artists produced two relief prints and two drypoints , one of each which will be signed and bound in a book
- [Printing Pots](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-pots/) - During August, artist Alan Birch spent two weeks working with families producing prints inspired by the ceramics found in the Mediterranean galleries. Parents and children alike made drawings, cut out wallpaper and produced multi- coloured relief prints. The children really enjoyed inking their own plates and during the residency over 1000 people made a range
- [Coffee, Cake and Culture](https://alanbirch.co.uk/coffee-cake-and-culture-5/) - Artists from Stockport and Manchester spent 2 sessions with artist Alan Birch at the Whitworth in September. Using the embroidered images by the artist William Kentridge as a starting point, artists made engravings and relief prints incorporating collage into their prints. The rich visual images reflected the textured works of Kentridge. The show is on
- [Turnpike Prints on show.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/turnpike-prints-2/) - Work done by 2 primary schools, 2 secondary school and the art club from the Turnpike Art Gallery in Leigh were exhibited at the Turnpike a alongside the work of Dave Pearson. The prints inspired by Dave's prints of Customs and Festivals, were produced over 5 days and were curated by Hannah Gaunt, Learning and
- [Age Friendly Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/age-friendly-prints-2/) - Members of age friendly arts programme at the Whitworth Art Gallery, were introduced to a variety of printmaking techniques,during a 3 week residency programme. in the first session, artists produced a range of relief and monoprints inspired the work of Gillian Ayres and the Whitworth garden. During the second week . reduction lino cuts, inspired
- [Coffee, Cake and Culture.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/coffee-cake-and-culture-4/) - Members of arts groups and health support groups met at the Whitworth in Manchester to explore new printmaking techniques. Participants were introduced to the technique of relief printing, which they will later pass onto their members.
- [Prints at the Whitaker.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prints-at-the-whitaker/) - Pupils from Crawshawbooth Primary School spent warm summer days at the Whitaker in Rawtenstall, working with the printmaker Alan Birch. Pupils spent time in the museum, looking at objects from the local history and natural history collection and hearing about the stories behind the objects. Working with Alan, pupils produced a series of drawings before
- [African Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/african-prints/) - Year 1 pupils from The Twelve Apostles RC Primary School in Wigan experienced their first taste of printing with artist Alan Birch. The pupils had been looking at African culture as part of their studies and explored the theme of African masks. Pupils used water based inks and wallpaper to create their brilliant prints.
- [Manchester Mela printing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/manchester-mela-printing/) - As part of the Manchester Mela activities, Alan Birch in conjunction with Manchester Museum encouraged visitors to produce a range of prints, based on objects found in the museum. Over 400 visitors produced colourful relief prints, using wallpaper and specialist relief prints. Children and adults took part in the activities, many saying that they would
- [Newcomers to print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/newcomers-to-print/) - Over 40 year 10 pupils experienced printmaking for the first time at the Whitworth in July. The workshops formed part of a whole week of a activities at Manchester Museum, aimed at encouraging pupils to apply to University. Pupils had one hour to draw from the contemporary wallpaper collection, and transform these drawings into engravings.
- [Christ the King School Art Week.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/christ-the-king-school-art-week/) - Pupils from Christ the King Primary School in Manchester, spent a creative week, looking at the work of Vincent Van Gogh, David Hockney and Lucienne Day. Working with artist Alan Birch, reception pupils worked on relief prints based on the work of Day, Year 3 and 4 worked on relief prints and engravings based on
- [First time printers.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/first-time-printers/) - Year 9 pupils from Loreto High School were introduced to the work of Alan Birch, prior to embarking on a lengthy session of printmaking, linked to their GCSE coursework. Pupils were encouraged to experiment with a range of techniques linked to themes in their work. Their attitude was exemplary and many really grabbed the opportunity
- [Turnpike prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/turnpike-prints/) - Year 7 pupils from Bedford High School, spent a creative afternoon working with printmaker Alan Birch. Working on the theme of myth and customs, pupils produced a series of drawings which were then transformed into intaglio engravings. These plates were inked with water based ink and printed on a portable printing press. The prints were
- [Visit to Manchester Art Gallery.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/visit-to-manchester-art-gallery/) - Members of Prospect Printmakers were given the chance to view the prints currently in the collection of Manchester Art Gallery. Artists were introduced to the collection by curator Kate Jesson and were then given the opportunity to chose their own print selections. Artist viewed works by Durer, Sutherland, Sickert, Rembrandt as well as viewing works
- [Talking Printmaking](https://alanbirch.co.uk/talking-printmaking/) - Members of Prospect Printmakers visited Radio Lancashire to discuss prints and promote their exhibition at the Whitaker. Artists Peter Cave and Carolyn Murphy joined Alan Birch to talk about their passion for print on the mid morning show with Brett and Sally on the both May. Hopefully listeners will have enjoyed the chat and come
- [Whitaker show.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/whitaker-show/) - The opening of Prospect Printmakers was a high success with over 150 people attending the show on a sunny day. The exhibition received a great response with several visitors buying work. The show is on until mid June and Alan Birch will be running a printmaking taster in May. For more details contact the gallery
- [High School Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/high-school-prints/) - Year 8 pupils from Fred Longworth High School in Tydesley produced some excellent lino cuts in response to the etchings of Dave Pearson. Pupils looked at Daves work and also looked at various figures from folk festivals to base their work on. Their commitment and enthusiasm was to be commended and their prints will be
- [Bury Art Society](https://alanbirch.co.uk/bury-art-society/) - Members of Bury Art Society were introduced to the prints of Alan Birch and then were encouraged to try the drypoint printing technique for themselves. Artists used metallic card to engrave with nails and used sandpaper, cotton buds to create different effects. It was great to see many members try the technique and some excellent
- [Baby Shower prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/baby-shower-prints/) - Family members and friends joined artist Alan Birch to produce prints at The Whitworth in Manchester. This is the first time Alan has ever run a session for a social event, and the prints were excellent. Family and friends were able to take two relief prints from their plates, giving one as a present. Congratulations
- [Pennine Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pennine-prints/) - The show by 20 prints by printmakers from Prospect Studios has now opened. The show runs until June and features a range of printing techniques from collograph to etchings on the theme of the Pennines. All work is for sale and Liam Spencer is showing his work in the main gallery. https://www.rossendalefreepress.co.uk/news/two-art-exhibitions-whitaker-open-14547213
- [THE PENNINES](https://alanbirch.co.uk/the-pennines/) - 20 members of Prospect Studios will be showing their work at The Whitaker from the 21st of April. The exhibition will run in conjunction with the exhibition by Liam Spencer " Home and Away. ". The period of April and May will see Prospect Studios dominating the museum and Alan Birch will give a print
- [Gelli Printing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gelli-printing/) - Artist Karen Vine gave a short demonstration of gelli printing to a small group of Prospect printmakers during March. This was the first time many artists had experimented with the technique. It is a technique which uses acrylic paint and can incorporate stencils etc. It is a painterly technique which needs no press so can
- [New Prospect Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-prospect-prints-2/) - Artists have been busy at Prospect Studios producing prints for the forthcoming exhibition at the Whitaker in April. Besides working on the theme of The Pennines, artists have been extending their work and experimenting. Newcomers to the class have enjoyed getting their hands dirty and producing some brilliant prints!
- [Exam Preparation](https://alanbirch.co.uk/exam-preparation/) - Pupils from Bishop Thomas Holford School in Altrincham spent a day with printmaker Alan Birch working on a body of prints linked to their GCSE coursework. Using themes of natural forms and food, pupils explored collographs, engravings, chine colle and relief prints, printing with Alan's portable press and water-based inks. Some pupils completed over 10
- [Enchanted Woodland.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/enchanted-woodland/) - Year 1 pupils from Greenacres Primary School in Oldham, visited The Whitworth before their Easter break, to look at the collection and explore printmaking for the first time. As part of their topic " Enchanted Woodland " they looked at the watercolours and prints in the Cozens and Cozens exhibition. Later the pupils used patterned
- [Age Friendly Printing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/age-friendly-prints/) - Members of the Age Friendly Art Group at the Whitworth spent two creative afternoons with artist Alan Birch making chine colle engravings and monoprints. The photographic exhibition by John Stezaker, inspired the surreal engravings whilst paintings and drawings by Cecily Brown formed the starting point for the monoprints. For the monoprints artists used masterworks from
- [Christie prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/christie-prints/) - Prospect printmaker Carolyn Murphy has just completed her large print for the CRHritie hospital I'm Manchester. The prototype for the print was completed at Prospect Studio, with Carolyn refining any obstacles which would occur during the cutting and printing process,.Hot Bed Press provided facilities for the printing of the large print. Congratulations!
- [John Stezaker Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/john-stezaker-prints/) - Year 7 boys from Sandbach High School spent the day at the Whitworth working with Printmaker Alan Birch. They produced some excellent drawings based on the surreal work of John Stezaker. These drawing were later transformed into engravings and enhanced with the addition of collage. The chosen collages helped to heighten the sense of the surreal.
- [Prospect Print News](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-print-news/) - Printmakers have been busy at Prospect Studio getting prints ready for the forthcoming show at The Whittaker in April. Printmakers will show their work at the venue to coincide with an exhibition by Liam Spencer. The artists are working on the theme of The Pennines. Below is a print by Peter Cave, more will follow
- [Hester Cox Masterclass.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/hester-cox-masterclass/) - Regular members of the printmaking classes at Prospect Studio were treated to a masterclass by Hester Cox. Hester who mainly works in the medium of Collograph, spent the weekend showing artist tricks and techniques whilst they produced their own work. Members produced some excellent work, some producing personal pieces whilst others experimented with techniques. Hopefully
- [Hokusai and Volcanoes](https://alanbirch.co.uk/hokusai-and-volcanoes/) - Year 6 pupils from St Ambrose Preparatory School in Hale Barns, spent a day producing relief and intaglio prints with artist Alan Birch. Pupils have been looking at the work of Japanese maestro Hokusai alongside volcanoes., and these subjects were used for the prints. Pupils were shown all forms of printmaking, and then produced drawings
- [Blackpool Art Club](https://alanbirch.co.uk/blackpool-art-club/) - Members of Blackpool Art Club spent a busy day when artist Alan birch visited their group. Members engaged themselves fully in printing techniques, producing collographs, drypoints, relief prints and mono printing. Some members were able to print 10 prints during the day, enough to stage their own exhibition.
- [Printing for the RHS](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-for-the-rhs/) - Teachers from across the North west spent a creative day at The Whitworth in conjunction with the RHS. The schools are working with the RHS to design gardens for the show at Tatton Park in 2018. The gardens will be inspired by artists and designers work, ranging from Damien Hurst to Monet. Teachers were shown
- [Merry Christmas](https://alanbirch.co.uk/merry-christmas/) - Merry Christmas to all printmakers everywhere, and a special thanks to all who attended printing classes during 2017, whether at Prospect Studio, The Whitworth in schools, colleges and galleries everywhere. Here is St Cupcake to enjoy this festive period.
- [Prospect Printing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-printing-2/) - Keen printmakers braved the freezing temperatures and the threat of snow to complete some excellent prints this weekend. Newcomers produced some great etchings and regulars continued their fine work. Cora a complete beginner showed what can be done in two days working on a theme. She managed etchings, chine collie, aquatints , drypoints, three colour
- [Salford students print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/salford-students-print/) - Alan Birch gave a lecture to degree students at Salford University as part of their printmaking module. Students and staff have been given access to the print collection at Manchester Art Gallery , viewing a series of 100 prints. Artists are to choose a work from the gallery and make their own personal response to
- [Folio Development Day.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/folio-development-day/) - Students from Xavarian College spent an insightful day at the Whitworth , being tutored by printmaker Alan Birch, and being advised by degree students on how to apply to degree courses. Top tips were taken on board and some excellent work was produced by the enthusiastic group. Pupils were able to look at there range
- [Christmas card prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/christmas-card-prints/) - Health workers, nurses and carers spent a day at the Whitworth as part of the Dementia Awareness day. They spent the day listening to speakers and engaging in creative workshops. The day also saw the launch of a Dementia Awareness book published by the Whitworth. As part of the day nurses spent short sessions with
- [Mexico visit. Mexico City.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mexico-visit-mexico-city/) - As part of the project,Alan visited the University of Mexico City and was shown around the amazing print facilities , including the press of Diego Rivera. The work produced by staff and students was of exceptional quality, and he hopes to make links for future projects. it was also Day of the Dead time and
- [Mexico visit. Real del Monte.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mexico-visit-real-del-monte/) - Alan Birch visited Mexico City and Real del Monte during October and November as part of a research project. Over the last two years Alan has been working with sculptor Jill Randall, producing a series of prints, based on the mineworkings found in Cornwall. This culminated in an exhibition of prints at Geevor Tin Mine
- [The Boo Christmas Fair.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/the-boo-christmas-fair/) - Artists Alan Birch and Jill Randall showed their prints at the Boo in Waterfoot as part of their Christmas Fair. They also sold a range of mexican craft objects brought back from their recent research trip to Mexico City and Real del Monte. Printmakers from the printing classes at the studio also sold their work
- [Teachers prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/teachers-prints/) - Teachers from the Greater Manchester area attended a printing masterclass with artist Alan birch at the Whitworth in Manchester in December. Nursery, primary and secondary teachers were introduced to techniques , ranging from relief prints which could be printed by hand to engraving using a portable printing press. Some threat work was produced and some
- [Preston Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/preston-prints/) - Photography students at Cardinal Newman College in Preston, spent a creative day with printmaker Alan Birch In November. Using ideas from their coursework, students explored a vast range of print techniques including engraving, chine collie and relief printing. The quality of their prints taken from perspex plates was exceptional and they completely engaged with the
- [Reveal Open Studio and the Whittaker](https://alanbirch.co.uk/reveal-open-studio-and-the-whittaker/) - Alan Birch will be showing his work as part of the Reveal on the weekend of 7th and 8th of October 2017 in Waterfoot , Rossendale, Lancs. He will be showing new work inspired by a recent trip to Australia and a selection of Contemporary Saints, a series of 80 prints to be shown in
- [Bury Print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/bury-print/) - For the first time at Prospect Studios the entire class consisted of creatives from Bury. Artists usually travel from all over the northwest, but this was a first. Some great work was produced including GCSE work by one of the class. Some members are part of Bury Collective and are showing at the Whittaker in
- [Large drypoints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/large-drypoints/) - Artists from the printmaking classes at Prospect Studios were able too use the facilities at Clark Holme Studios in Waterfoot to print large drypooint prints. Artists created the large perspex plates at Prospect then venture up Burnley Road East to print on full sheets of Fabriano paper using the large press in the studio. Artists
- [Handmade Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/handmade-prints/) - Creative and enthusiastic artists have been busy working with artist Alan Birch at the Whitworth over the last three weeks. Using the current collections at The Whitworth, artists produced drawings which were later used to create prints. The Barbara Brown prints were used to create 3 colour lino cuts and the Raqib Shaw works created
- [St Create](https://alanbirch.co.uk/st-create/) - Alan Birch is currently working on a banner to be used in a protest march at the Tory Party Conference in October. The banner will feature in a protest against cruel cuts to school budgets. More pics after the event.
- [Bury prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/bury-prints/) - Artists new to print , were shown intaglio techniques by artist Alan Birch at Bury Art Gallery over the Bank Holiday weekend. Artists engraved added texture and collage to their prints as they explored the creative opportunities offered by the process. Some excellent prints were produced some of which will be shown in local galleries.
- [Beyond Dementia](https://alanbirch.co.uk/beyond-dementia-2/) - Families took part in a printmaking workshop led by Alan Birch at The Whitworth during the summer holidays. The activity linked with the Beyond Dementia exhibition at the gallery proved very popular with over 6o people taking part. Artists were asked to take their inspiration from images and shapes in the show where people living
- [Insects and forms.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/insects-and-forms/) - Year 10-pupil from Wellington School worked with artists at the Whitworth producing some great drawings, paintings and prints. Pupils working with Alan Birch, worked on chine colle engravings on the theme of natural forms and insects. IMages were taken from work on display in the Whitworth Art Gallery and images brought into the session were
- [Huddersfield prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/huddersfield-prints/) - Alan Birch spent a productive day working with Year 10 pupils at Salindine Nook Academy High School in Huddersfield. Pupils explored techniques of mono print, relief, intaglio and collograph during the day and produced some vibrant work to enhance their GCSe coursework. "Thank you so much for Friday, We all really enjoyed it! " Rachel
- [Beyond Dementia](https://alanbirch.co.uk/beyond-dementia/) - Work produced by the Dementia Friends opened at the Whitworth at the end of August. This brilliant and innovative exhibition is the result of a creative collaboration between Arts for Health, the Whitworth and the Fabulously Forgetful Friends , a group of people living with dementia runs until September. Creative work produced earlier in the
- [Local prints by local children.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/local-prints-by-local-children/) - Artist Alan Birch spent two days working with talented and creative pupils at Waterfoot Primary School. Working on the theme of transformation, Alan showed some images of Mexican folk objects and the work of Max Ernst and Hannah Hoch. Children then created their own individual creatures from collages before drawing, engraving and printing their own prints.
- [Primary Printing morning.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/primary-printing-morning/) - Artist Alan Birch, spent the morning in St Elizabeths Primary School in Wythenshawe on behalf of the Whitworth Art Gallery. Pupils from Year 4 , 5 and 6 explored a range of printmaking media. Relief prints, drypoints and polystyrene prints were produced during the morning and the pupils really engaged with the subject. The vibrant
- [Lucienne Day Inspiration](https://alanbirch.co.uk/lucienne-day-inspiration/) - Year 10 pupils from Wellington High School spent the morning with printmaker Alan Birch at The Whitworth in Manchester. Using the work of Lucienne Day as inspiration, pupils make studies in pencil before engraving their forms into drypoint plates. These they later inked and printed, later adding chine collie, natural forms and relief shapes into
- [Ramsbottom prints on show!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ramsbottom-prints-on-show/) - The talented artists of Ramsbottom and the surrounding area, were shown as part of the Reignite Exhibition at Ramsbottom Library. The show to promote Adult Learning in Bury saw work by a host of courses, celebrating the creative talent of the creative classes. The prints of class members taught by Alan Birch was excellent. Vibrant
- [GCSE printing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gcse-printing/) - 25 Year 9 pupils at Blessed Trinity Rc College,Burnley spent a day with printmaker Alan Birch, extending their work into a whole range of printing techniques. Drypoint, Chine colle, relief, collograph and mixed media pieces were explored and some great work was produced. The work produced should enhance their coursework in advance of their embarking
- [MRI Consultation](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mri-consultation/) - Alan Birch spent the afternoon in the Critical Care Unit at Manchester Royal Infirmary as part of the Health and Wellbeing Programme. Alan together with artist Lucy Burscough and musician Rachel engaged nurses and visitors alike to gauge their opinions on the existing and future decoration of the unit. Over 22 nurses and visitors took part,
- [Creative Ramsbottom.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/creative-ramsbottom/) - Artists in Ramsbottom have been showing their skills at a printmaking class at Ramsbottom Library. The printmaking sessions at the library are part of Bury Adult Learning Service. Artists have explored reduction lino, relief, engraving drypoint , mono print and chine colle. There area many talented artists around! Adult Education is vital.
- [Nurses print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/nurses-print/) - As part of the Health and Wellbeing programme, in conjunction with the Manchester Museum , Alan Birch spent a morning working with nurses and carers specialising in the care and treatment of Dementia. Over 30 nurses listened to Wendy Gallagher talk about the arts programme before drawing and discussing personal objects and objects from the
- [Space and Planets](https://alanbirch.co.uk/space-and-planets/) - Year 1 and 2 pupils from St Hilda's Primary School in Chorlton spent 3 days working with artist Alan Birch representing the Whitworth Art Gallery. Pupils created space aliens , printing from recycled objects, relief printing of planets with polystyrene, create planets of the solar system by printing from modern and antique wallpapers from the
- [Deathly Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/deathly-prints/) - Visitors to the Whitworth were offered the opportunity to produce their own engravings based on the theme of Strange Ways to meet Death. Artist Alan Birch who has produced a series of 50 etchings illustrating bizarre ways people have met their ends. Over 30 people took part, ranging from care workers, artists and complete beginners.
- [Easter prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/easter-prints/) - Over 500 parents and children experienced the joy of printmaking over the Easter break. Working with printmaker Alan Birch, visitors were encouraged to draw from the work of Barbara Brown, Andy Warhol and Deanna Petheridge. These drawings were used to transfer into shapes cut from wallpapers ( some from old sample books from the Whitworths
- [QEGS Teachers Day.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/qegs-teachers-day/) - Artist Alan Birch spent a day at Queen Elizabeths Grammar School in Blackburn, spreading the gospel of print. Alan worked with sixth formers producing a series of engravings, some incorporating collage. Later teachers from Blackburn secondary schools were able to enjoy themselves getting creative and exploring the world of print.
- [Visiting artist.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/visiting-artist/) - Printmakers at Prospect Studio spent an enjoyable weekend working with printmaker Stuart Brocklehurst. Stuart showed artists his work before they produced their own 6 colour prints, printed by hand. A great range of prints was produced and artists thoroughly enjoyed their day.
- [Dementia Friends.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/dementia-friends/) - People living with Dementia , and their carers spend creative Tuesday afternoons at The Whitworth, experiencing a range of creative activities. The friendly, creative and supportive group have painted, sculpted and printed their way round the gallery, producing some great work. The group produced some great lino cuts with Alan Birch. This work together with
- [](https://alanbirch.co.uk/4509-2/) - Over 300 parents and children were entertained at Stanley Grove as part of BBC Get Creative Day. Around 100 prints were created by adults and children, as they enjoyed circus skills, music, and creative food. A great day was had by all helped by the sunny weather. The event was to focus attention to the proposed
- [Pop art prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pop-art-prints-2/) - Pupils from Park Road Primary School in Sale produced some excellent prints based on the Andy Warhol show at The Whitworth in Manchester. Pupils are introduced to printmaking by artist Alan Birch, before drawing from the Warhol exhibition in the gallery. These drawings were used to make engravings which were printed by the pupils on
- [Futures show.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/futures-show/) - Over 15 members of Prospect Studio Art Classes are currently showing their work at Bury Art Gallery. The theme of Feared and Farcical Futures has inspired artists to produce new work and is on show on the Balcony Gallery. Artists also have their work on sale in the shop. The show ends on the 2nd
- [Clitheroe exhibition.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/clitheroe-exhibition/) - Well done to all the printers who worked so hard producing work for the Longitude Gallery in Clitheroe. Congratulations to all artists and thanks to the gallery team. really appreciated!
- [Primary Panels](https://alanbirch.co.uk/primary-panels/) - Early years pupils at Crowcroft Primary School in Manchester were delighted to see their artworks installed on the corridors of their newly refurbished gallery walls. Reception pupils were amazed to see their relief and surface printed works inspired by the story of the 3 Little Pigs, digitally produced as panels. Whilst Year 1 pupils saw
- [Handmade Printing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/handmade-printing/) - Members of the Handmade group at The Whitworth spent 5 creative days with artist Alan Birch, producing a series of drypoints, chine colle, relief prints and monoprints. The group who meet regularly on Friday afternoons at the Whitworth, used the works on display as starting points. For many of the group this was their first
- [WYPW print day.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/wypw-print-day/) - Artists at West Yorkshire Print Workshop spent a day working with artist Alan Birch, producing drypoint prints on perspex. The workshop was organised alongside Alan's exhibition of Later-day Saints at the gallery in January. For some this was their first taste of drypoint and the results were excellent.
- [Print beginners.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/print-beginners/) - GCSE pupils from Audenshaw used the works on display at the Whitworth to produce a series of prints to enhance their GCSE coursework. Many used the technique of drypoint together with chine colle to develop works linked to exam themes. For many this was their first experience of print.
- [Crowcroft panels installed.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/crowcroft-panels-installed/) - Children at Crowcroft Park Primary School were delighted to finally see their work on the corridor walls. The large digital panels featuring prints done by the Reception, Year 1 and Year 3 pupils, were printed by Design and Print in Chorlton and now sit alongside other panels completed last year by older pupils working with
- [Prospect in Clitheroe](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-in-clitheroe/) - Hi all . Prospect Printmakers show in Clitheroe. The work of 22 print makers. All welcome. opening 4 the March 1-4pm Longitude Gallery, 19th Feb to 28th March. Open Monday to Saturday. Near the Castle. For more information contact Alan at alan@alanbirch.co.uk or visit www.alanbirch.co.uk.
- [Crowcroft Park prints. Reception class.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/crowcroft-park-prints-reception-class/) - Printmaker Alan Birch worked with pupils from Reception, Year 1 and Year 3 at Crowcroft Park Primary School in Longsight, during a 6 day residency. Reception pupils worked on the story of the 3 Little Pigs, using wallpaper and found objects to develop drawings into relief prints.Pupils worked on images for 6 scenes to tell
- [Medieval Saints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/medieval-saints/) - Medieval history students at Manchester University were introduced to the work of artist Alan Birch as part of the course. They later made their own personal response to the work, creating their own contemporary saint. Drawings produced by the students were then engraved into soft metallic card plates, and printed using Alan's portable press. Some
- [Teachers print!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/teachers-print-2/) - Staff from Stubbins Primary School, spent a day at the Whitworth working with Primary School Co-ordinator, Steven Roper and printmaker Alan Birch . For many this was their first visit since the renovation of the building and they produced some excellent, drawings and photos with Steven and a portfolio of prints with Alan. Artists looked
- [Primary prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/primary-prints/) - Year 4 Pupils from Riverside Primary School in Salford, spent a full day at The Whitworth Art Gallery in December. For many this was their first visit and their reaction to the building and collection was a joy to see . They loved the range of work and spent half the day exploring the work
- [Extinction at the Museum](https://alanbirch.co.uk/extinction-at-the-museum/) - Visitors to Manchester Museum spent time, looking at the Extinction/Survival exhibition before producing inspirational and creative prints based on displays in the museum. Participants looked at animals under threat and those which have become extinct, using cut out wallpapers to make positive and negative shapes. Over four days more than 500 prints were produced using
- [Renaissance prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/renaissance-prints/) - Pupils from St Gabriels RC Secondary School, were introduced to the work of renaissance printmaker Marcantonio Raimondi. Year 10 pupils produced drawings from the works on display before producing engravings on metallic card. After engraving the plates pupils inked their own plates and printed them using a portable press.
- [Alan Birch. Studio thinking.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/alan-birch-studio-thinking/) - Alan Birch is a creative practitioner at the Whitworth Art Gallery, specialising in print for more information visit https://whitworthstudiothinking.wordpress.com/2014/02/11/alan-birch-print-maker/
- [Night at the Museum](https://alanbirch.co.uk/night-at-the-museum-4/) - Over 130 overseas students, spent a late night at Manchester Museum, producing engravings based on the collection. Over 800 students attended the event and for many this was their first taste of printmaking. Alan Birch assisted by Jasper Howard inked and printed the prints in 2 hours, probably a museum record.
- [Coffee, cake and culture.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/coffee-cake-and-culture-3/) - Residents from Rosecourt Care Home in Whitefield , visited the Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester to work with artist Alan Birch. The session part of the coffee, cake and culture programme as part of the Health and Well Being programme is aimed at bringing carers and people living with dementia together in a creative and
- [Wigan Youth Zone](https://alanbirch.co.uk/wigan-youth-zone/) - Year 10 pupils from Wigan , spent a day working st the art zone in Wigan. Pupils looked at an exhibition of prints displayed in the gallery spaces working on drawings with Martyn Lucas .These drawings and studies formed the basis for drypoints, chine colle prints and relief prints. Some excellent prints were produced by
- [Top of the World](https://alanbirch.co.uk/top-of-the-world/) - Residents of open shaw spent the day working with artist Alan BIrch .the project run in conjunction with the Royal Exchange, aims at bringing residents ( especially men ) together, encouraging creativity and communication. Residents have visited theatres in Manchester as part of the project. In this first session participants looked at expression and portrayed
- [Raimondi at the Whitworth](https://alanbirch.co.uk/raimondi-at/) - http://www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk/whats-on/exhibitions/currentexhibitions/raimondiandraphael/ Students from the BA and MA Art History course at Manchester University were given a sneak preview of the exhibition of engravings by Marc Antonio Raimondi. David Morris talked about the influences, techniques and ideas behind the work, before participants engraved their own plates sand printed them with the aid of artist Alan Birch.
- [Rossendale Art Trail 2016](https://alanbirch.co.uk/rossendale-art-trail-2016/) - ROSSENDALE ART TRAIL 2016. Hi all. Just a quick announcement of the Rossendale Art Trail 2016. Once again studios, The Whittaker, Dave Pearson Trust , The Boo and other venues will open their doors to the public. All venues offer free admission. Opening times 11 a.m. -5 p.m. Prospect Studios will be raising money for
- [Etched Lino & Drypoint](https://alanbirch.co.uk/etched-lino-drypoint/) - Printmaker Pete Cave produced some wonderful rich relief prints at Prospect Studio in August. Pete etched the lino at home using caustic soda, printing the blocks at Prospect Studio with Alan Birch. The prints are to be submitted to Bury Met in Bury as part of their refurbishment. Artist Kay Macintosh worked on an edition
- [Large Drypoint weekend.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/large-drypoint-weekend/) - Artists Pam Holstein, Carolyn Murphy and Jill Randall spent a creative weekend in the Rossendale Valley. Large drypoints on perspex plates were created at Prospect Studios, artists using a range of drypoints tools plus a range of power tools to create marks on the perspex. The Sunday was spent using the large press at Valley
- [New Saints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-saints-3/) - Here is a selection of some of the 50 saints produced by public, patients and medics as part of the Culture Shots programme. If anyone has saints to be printed do bring them to Trafford General tomorrow pm or MRI Thursday am or hand into Whitworth reception.
- [Print your Saint.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/print-your-saint/) - Culture Shots( part of the Health and Wellbeing programme at the Whitworth ) is Monday 18 July – Friday 22 July this year. We are running a fantastic printmaking competition this year – winners work will be framed and displayed in the hospitals and we are hoping to produce a printed book of our favourites.
- [Summer School in Bury](https://alanbirch.co.uk/summer-school-in-bury/) - Alan Birch will be running a printmaking day at Ramsbottom Library on Saturday the 16th of June. The day will be part of the Summer School run by Bury Adult Learning Service. The workshop will explore the creative opportunities of dry point printing, using soft card plates which will be used to engrave lines and
- [New Saints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-saints-2/) - Alan Birch is currently working on new saints for the Leeds Medieval Conference in July. If you are around on the 6th and 7th of July pop into the University area and pay homage. Alan is currently working on merchandise to see on his stall and the saints will be shown around the campus.
- [Prospect printers news](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-printers-news/) - Members of Prospect Printmakers have enjoyed great success in recent months. Many artists enter competitions and arrange their own shows. A selection of their success is below. Pam Holstein- shortlisted for Jacksons Art Prize. Carloyn Murphy- soon to be included in a publication. Peter Cave and Dave Norris- selected for Bury Arts Festival ( peter
- [Dave Pearson update.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/dave-pearson-update/) - Alan birch has spent the last month printing the large etching and drypoint plates of Dave Pearson. Alan has used his own press and the large press at Valley artists, to produce rich and narrative prints on Fabriano paper. The works feature folk customs and expressive figurative works. The prints are being printed for the
- [Bish Bash Bosch!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/bish-bash-bosch/) - Artist Alan Birch spent a few days in Holland , researching venues for touring his series Later-Day Saints. The series now numbering 54 prints, will be shown at Leeds Medieval Congress in July, and Alan is currently looking for other venues. Alan visited museums in Dusseldorf, Den Bosch, Amsterdam and hopefully the saints will make
- [Get Creative Day](https://alanbirch.co.uk/get-creative-day/) - Families were able to get their hands dirty as part of the Nationwide BBC initiative " Get Creative Day" at Stanley Grove in Longsight in April. A range of creative activities were arranged, including a printing workshop with artist Alan Birch. Both parents and children used the wok of Kandinsky and Matisse to create colourful
- [Cornish prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/cornish-prints-2/) - Jill Randall, a regular at the Printing classes at Prospect Studio, is currently showing her work at Geever Tin Mine in Cornwall. The exhibition featuring drawings, sculpture and prints in the gallery at Geever is on show until September 2016. The prints from deeply bitten plates, involving intaglio inking and rollovers, reflect the plant life
- [Rousseau prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/rousseau-prints/) - Year 4 pupils from Cavendish Primary School, showcased their excellent creative powers at a printing workshop with artist Alan Birch. Pupils producing drawings from the work of Rousseau, before engraving them onto metallic card plates. Using engravers and sandpaper pupils, pupils transformed their drawings into intaglio prints. Pupils used Alan's portable press and water-based inks
- [Coffee, Cake and Culture](https://alanbirch.co.uk/coffee-cake-and-culture-2/) - Residents from Ratcliffe Care home, spent an enjoyable day at the Whitworth in Manchester, printing with Alan Birch. Using the work of MIchael Brennan Wood, residents suffering from Dementia, explored the colours and the shapes of the piece, drawing shapes. These drawings were used to cut out shapes from textured wallpapers which were then printed
- [New Saints materialise](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-saints-materialise/) - I am currently working on 15 new saints to bring up the total to 50. St Gamer is the latest addition to the brotherhood, joining Saints Bogoff and Zero Hours. The Saints will be on view at the International Medieval Congress in Leeds in July. Anyone requiring details contact Alan on alan@alanbirch.co.uk.
- [Later-Day Saints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/later-day-saints/) - Over the the last three years I have been working on a series of prints, initially monoprints, which take their starting point from the collection of saintly wood carvings in the Wellcome Collection at The Science Museum in London . The depiction of saints is a subject I have been long fascinated with, whether in
- [New prints at Prospect](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-prints-at-prospect/) - Two new artists produced excellent prints at the printing workshop at Prospect Studio last weekend. Jasper Howard made some amazing chine colle prints depicting his father. Neil Hodgsons portrait was bitten for several times to produce deeper lines. Kay Macintosh experimented with drypoint.
- [Coffee, cake and culture.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/coffee-cake-and-culture/) - A fascinating and invigorating workshop was held at The Whitworth for Carers and their family members with early onset dementia . Artist Alan Birch took the group around the Whitworth looking and drawing from the figurative work of Tibor Reich. These drawings were later transformed into engravings which were printed with collage. The sessions which
- [Medieval Congress News](https://alanbirch.co.uk/medieval-congress-news/) - Alan Birch will be showing his expanded series of Later- Day Saints at Leeds International Medieval Conference on the 6th and 7th of July. Around 10 framed prints will be exhibited during the Conference and Alan will be there in person on the 6th ( Medieval Craft Fair ) and the 7th ( Making Leeds Medieval
- [Whitworth Visit](https://alanbirch.co.uk/whitworth-visit/) - Printmakers from Prospect Studio, spent an enjoyable morning at The Whitworth in Manchester, getting close to prints from the collection. Curator Helen Stalker talked about the works on show and introduced artists to a range of prints including Rembrandt, Hokusai, Kollwitz, Munch , Picasso, Roualt, Piranesi, Ackroyd amongst others. It is hoped that more visits
- [Manchester College Creatives.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/manchester-college-creatives/) - Students from Level 2 courses at Manchester College, Manchester spent the day at the Whitworth getting portfolio advice from MMU students and printing with Alan Birch. Given free reign to wander the galleries in search of subject matter, students transformed their sketches into drypoints and chine colle prints. Some brilliant work was produced by the
- [Studio Saints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/studio-saints/) - As part of the Reveal Open Studio, visitors were encouraged to draw and print their own saint in Alans studio. Some great prints were produced and prizes of 8 saintly postcards were awarded.
- [Saint Selfie in Venice](https://alanbirch.co.uk/saint-selfie-in-venice/) - Saint Selfie came face to face with his inspiration in Venice. The painting by was the starting point for Saint Selfie. More saintly pics will follow, having seen others in Porto, Braga and Venice.
- [Wallpaper Inspiration](https://alanbirch.co.uk/wallpaper-inspiration/) - Families were able to wander around the galleries at the Whitworth over half term, sketching and documenting work in the galleries. Children and parents were inspired by the wallpaper collection, the work of Bedwr Williams and the contemporary textile show. Families brought their sketches to the Learning Studio where they created and printed their own
- [Teachers in Print](https://alanbirch.co.uk/teachers-in-print/) - Teachers from the Bury area, spent a day at the Whitworth working with artists and creative practitioners . Using the exhibition Art Textiles as resource material teachers, teachers produced written pieces, textile pieces, objects and mixed media pieces with Alan Birch.
- [Saints to Headline at Leeds.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/saints-to-headline-at-leeds/) - Alan Birch will hopefully be presenting his drypoints and his etchings of Later-Day Saints at the International Medieval Congress in July. He plans to have 50 saints complete by that date and he will be in residence in July. Over 2000 Medievalists will be present and the special thematic strand is Food, Feast & Famine.
- [Saints visit Chester.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/saints-visit-chester/) - Alan Birch is currently showing a selection of his Later-Day saints and some drypoints at Telfords Bar and Restaurant at Chester. The show will run until February and all work is for sale. An informal opening is planned for January, email Alan for details.
- [Pop Art Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pop-art-prints/) - Year 10 pupils from Our Lady & St Pauls RC High School spent a morning working with printmaker Alan Birch. Pupils showed their excellent drawing skills by sketching from the Victorian Portraits from the Gallery collection. To reflect their class topic of Pop Art, they added collage materials, colour shapes and pop art imagery to
- [Cornish prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/cornish-prints/) - Artist Jill Randall is currently working on a series of etchings, drypoints and chine collie prints which will be shown in the gallery space at Geevor Mine from mid February 2106. The works are inspired by the plants and landscape of Cornwall , in particular alien organisms and plants which have invaded the landscape.For further
- [Dave Pearson prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/dave-pearson-prints/) - The Dave Pearson Trust have approached Alan Birch to restore and clean nearly 60 plates produced by artist Dave Pearson. Dave Pearson an artist and lecturer who lived and worked in the valley, died in 2008 and the Dave Pearson Trust based in Haslingden , possess 15000 pieces of his work. The Trust discovered the
- [20:20 Print exchange](https://alanbirch.co.uk/2020-print-exchange-2/) - Printmakers from Prospect Studio took part in the 20:20 print exchange organised by Hot Bed Press in Manchester. Printmakers from all over the country took part in the exchange plus for the first time a studio from Iceland took part! The prints will be shown at Hot Bed Press and move to Bolton, Wrexham and
- [Food for Thought!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/food-for-thought/) - Year 10 pupils from St Mary's High School in Leigh spent the day developing their coursework into a range of print techniques. The theme of food was used by Year 10's and portraits by Year 12's. and prints were produced to enhance their coursework. Techniques covered were collographs, chine collie, drypoints, and relief prints. For
- [Beyond the Frame.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/beyond-the-frame/) - Year 5 pupils at St Kentigerns Primary School and St John Vianney RC Primary School, were chosen by the Grundy Art Gallery to work with printmaker Alan Birch for an exhibition in 2016. Pupils produced drawings inspired by portraits held in the gallery's collection. These drawings were used as a basis for engravings printed engraved,
- [Hand made printing sessions](https://alanbirch.co.uk/hand-made-printing-sessions/) - Members of the Age Friendly Museums Network spent 3 afternoons at the Whitworth, exploring the creative opportunities offered by print. Working with printmaker Alan Birch artists took the works on display in the Whitworth, as inspiration for a series of lino, relief, drypont and chine collie prints. For many of the artists it was their first
- [Whale of a time!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/whale-of-a-time/) - Printmaker Alan Birch Birch Spent an evening introducing International students to the process of drypoint. Over 120 students from the 800 who attended engraved their own images based on objects in the museum. For many it was their first experience of print whilst others renewed their links with the medium. Its the third time Alan
- [Open Studio 2015](https://alanbirch.co.uk/open-studio-2015/) - ROSSENDALE ART TRAIL OCTOBER 3rd and 4th 2015. 11.00 a.m-17.00 p.m PROSPECT STUDIOS 137-141 BURNLEY RD EAST, WATERFOOT. BB4 9DF tel : 07757186327 Alan Birch will be showing his collection of Later Day Saints, fresh form their appearance at The John Rylands Library in Manchester. The 20 saints shown at the Library at joined by
- [Museum prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/museum-prints/) - As part of the Autism Friendly Early Opening artist Alan Birch worked with visitors to create relief prints based on the Easter Island sculptues on show in the Rapa Nui exhibition. Some brilliant figure work was produced by participants. Also at an earlier workshop families produced some excellent prints based on the Vivarium in the
- [Summer School prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/summer-school-prints/) - Summer school students spent an afternoon working with printmaker Alan Birch at the newly refurbished Whitworth Art Gallery on Oxford road. Pupils looked at the large collection of portraits on display in the gallery, trying to work out background stories and personal insights about the people portrayed. Pupils then chose their favourite image, producing their
- [Corridor Art Work.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/corridor-art-work/) - Pupils at Crowcroft Park Primary School worked with artist Alan Birch over a two week period in the Summer Term , producing prints, collages, drawings, collages made from recycled objects and iPad drawings. Pupils were shown a range of artists work and then worked on drawings, prints , collages from which to develop their work
- [Star Tree prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/star-tree-prints/) - Printmaker Alan Birch spent a creative day at Star Tree Studio in Littleborough working with familes as part of the studios Summer Activities. Families spent a creative day working on drypoints and relief prints on the theme of animals and natural forms. Anyone looking for art activities should contact Alan Birch for details.
- [Collograph day at Prospect.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/collograph-day-at-prospect/) - Artist at Prospect Studio spent the weekend making and printing collograph blocks. Various materials were used ; the usuals carborundum, wallpaper, pva, tile adhesive etc with the addition of pasta, lentils and various foodstuffs brought by Carole Murphy! Plates featured birch ply, card, and aluminium.Landscapes, portraits and abstract images were produced.
- [Monster rollovers at Prospect.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/monster-rollovers-at-prospect/) - Print regular Pete Cave, became the first person to use the 30 inch relief roller at the studio. Pete who has been working on relief lino cuts, etched at home using caustic soda and wallpaper paste, made full use of the roller supplied by Hawthorn Printmaking. The addition of then new roller to the facilities
- [Venetian prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/venetian-prints/) - Year 5 pupils at Walmsley Primary School in Bolton, spent a day working with print maker Alan Birch. Pupils had been been looking at the painting of the Stonemason's Yard by Canaletto, currently hanging in the National Gallery. Alan showed pupils etching plates and examples of his own work before the pupils produced pencil sketches
- [Degree of Print at Rylands](https://alanbirch.co.uk/degree-of-print-at-rylands/) - https://jrleducation.wordpress.com/ Degree students from Salford University spent the morning at The John Rylands Library in Manchester, listening to artist Alan Birch, talk about the influences and inspiration behind his series of prints Later-Day Saints. In the afternoon students worked with Alan at the print room at the University, using medieval images as their inspiration.
- [Late night printing at the Whitworth.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/late-night-printing-at-the-whitworth/) - Some inspired and experimental printmaking took place at the Whitworth as part of Museums night. Over 40 people created prints, some chine collie prints and drypoints, reflecting work and performances in the gallery.
- [Disciples gather at Library](https://alanbirch.co.uk/disciples-gather-at-library/) - Alan Birch, showed visitors and friends, his new additions to the Later-Day saints series on show at The John Rylands Library. Over 60 people viewed, plates, proofs and 9 new saints as well as being told of the influences behind the work. Show runs until 26th June.
- [Engraving nature.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/engraving-nature/) - As part of the "Nature and Us" events as part of the Big Saturday event at Manchester Museum, visitors took the opportunity to work with artist Alan Birch to create engravings from the museum collection. Visitors spent time drawing and engraving their creations before inking and printing their plates using Alan's portable printing press.
- [Tameside College visit The John Rylands Library.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/tameside-college-visit-the-john-rylands-library/) - Animation students spent the afternoon at The John Rylands Library on Deansgate, in the company of artist Alan Birch. Students were given a tour of Alans exhibition Later-Day Saints in the Historic Reading Room, before creating their own prints, inspired by Medieval illustrations and images from the John Rylands collection.
- [Later-day Saints workshops.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/later-day-saints-workshops/) - Pupils from Wellacre Academy, All Hallows RC High School and Werneth School visited The John Rylands Library in Manchester, many for the first time. They were introduced to the work of Alan Birch, exhibited in the Historic Reading Room. Artists listened to the stories behind the series of Later-day Saints prints, sketched their own favourite
- [Free school workshops](https://alanbirch.co.uk/free-school-workshops/) - As part of the exhibition Later-Day saints at The John Rylands Library on Deansgate in Manchester, the library are offering free workshops for secondary schools in the Greater Manchester area. Spaces are available and interested schools should contact the library or Alan alan@alanbirch.co.uk. Workshops run in April and Mayand the show runs until end of
- [Collograph Day at Prospect Studio.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/collograph-day-at-prospect-studio/) - Artists spent a weekend at Prospect Studio, initially constructing collograph plates, prior to inking and printing them the following day. Artists worked with Alan Birch, editioning prints, involving rollovers, viscosity printing and chine collie. The results were spectacular!
- [Prospect printing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-printing/) - Artists Pete Cave and Pam Holstein have been busy editing prints at Prospect Studio this winter. Pete has been producing a series of etched lino prints, based on the landscape of the North East where as Pam has been busy pursuing her animal series. Watch out for their work as its sure to feature in
- [Printing for Arts Award.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-for-arts-award/) - Alan Birch worked with a range of Year 9-11 pupils at Werneth School, Harrytown, producing prints for their Arts Award. Pupils were shown work produced by Alan together with works by Liam Spencer and Jill Randall, fellow artists at Prospect Studio. Pupils asked relevant questions about careers in the arts before moving on to produce
- [Print returns to Whitworth](https://alanbirch.co.uk/print-returns-to-whitworth/) - Pupils from Cheadle Hulme High School worked with artist Alan Birch, to produce engravings and chine collie prints, inspired by the work of Cornelia Parker at the Whitworth. Pupils spent time drawing from the exhibits, taking inspiration from marks, shadows and objects found in the works. From these works pupils produced prints, printed with a
- [Print at the new Whitworth.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/print-at-the-new-whitworth/) - Over 120 artists, mainly adults experienced the world of intaglio printing at the Whitworth. Working in the Grand Hall with artist Alan Birch, artists took plates into the gallery and produced engravings inspired by the Thomas Schutte and the Cornelia Parker shows. For many it was their first taste of print, and many said that
- [Curriculum Creativity](https://alanbirch.co.uk/curriculum-creativity/) - Over 50 teachers from across the North West, met up for a curriculum day at St Ambrose Barlow, Catholic High School in Swinton. As part of the day teachers worked in teams for 20 minutes, exploring the world of pattern , texture, colour and print with printmaker Alan Birch.For many it was their first taste
- [Blackpool Print Magic!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/blackpool-print-magic/) - Families spent a creative afternoon working with artist Alan Birch at the Grundy Art Gallery in Blackpool. Taking the current exhibition theme of circus and magic, young ( and slightly older ) artists made drawings from the schools work on display. From these drawings , artists cut out shapes from wallpaper which they later inked
- [Lives of the Saints . St Last Minute.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/lives-of-the-saints-st-last-minute/) - St Last Minute Saints Day. 11th May. Born AD 1959. Castile. The son of Castilian royalty , St Last Minute rejected the opportunity to become King of Castile, instead following his love of football, in particular the English Premier League. Ostracised by his family he found solace in the smoky bars and clubs in northern
- [New Saint of the week.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/saint-of-the-week/) - Please welcome St Duvet to the brotherhood. His life story will appear in the next couple of weeks. Watch this space as more saints will materialise.
- [Later- day Saints. The Magazine.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/later-day-saints-the-magazine/) - For details of new book follow this link. http://blur.by/1KKqdqZ
- [Win the chance to make your own saint.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/win-the-chance-to-make-your-own-saint/) - Submit your own personal saint in the humorous spirit of the exhibition. This can be a drawing, painting, collage of digital image. A selection of the work submitted will be added to my website, and at the end of the show one work from those over 16 years and one from those under the age
- [Later-day Saints at The John Rylands Library. Manchester.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/later-day-saints-at-the-john-rylands-library-manchester/) - From14th January to 28th June 2015, I will be showing an ongoing series of contemporary saints inspired by work from the Wellcome collection. The series of 20 hand coloured drypoints will expand ( on line ) over the duration of the show with new saints being added .
- [Later-day Saints at The John Rylands Library.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/later-day-saints-at-the-john-rylands-library/) - Over the the last two years I have been working on a series of prints, initially monoprints, which take their starting point from the collection of saintly wood carvings in the Wellcome Collection at The Science Museum in London . The depiction of saints is a subject I have been long fascinated with, whether in
- [Printing Vouchers](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-vouchers/) - Stuck for last minute presents? Can't face the Trafford Centre. Printmaking vouchers available from Prospect Studio. For the man ( or woman ) who has always wanted to use the phrase " Come up and see my etchings!" The vouchers will be valid for any day booked in 2015 and will include one days tuition,
- [Pupils first prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pupils-first-prints/) - Pupils from St Mary's Catholic High School in Astley spent the day with printmaker Alan Birch enhancing their coursework. The 25 pupils from Year 10, 12 and 13 worked tirelessly throughout the day using their themes of natural forms and the figure to produce a range of prints. Techniques explored included drypoint, relief, chine collie,
- [20 20 Exchange](https://alanbirch.co.uk/20-20-exchange/) - 5 printmakers from Prospect Studio took part in the National print exchange organised by Hot Bed Press. Artists Peter Cave, Jo Beggs, Jacqui Fortnum, Katie Blair and Carolyn Murphy produced an edition of prints which will be swapped with printmakers working out of print studios from all over the country. This annual event has become a
- [Big Draw 2014](https://alanbirch.co.uk/big-draw-2014/) - In conjunction with Big Draw 2014, print maker Alan Birch spent true day in Touchstones, Rochdale working with families producing a mass of relief prints. Artists were encouraged to use the detailed pencil drawings of Natalie Giannikitzakis as inspiration for colourful surface prints, using wallpaper to create the silhouettes. Over 140 artists produced prints, some
- [New Prospect Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-prospect-prints/) - Members of Prospect Studio print workshop haver been busy working on new prints. Many of these prints will be seen at Craft Fairs in Chorlton ( St Clements Church ) on the 6th of December 2014, 11am-4.00pm and The Boo Theatre in Watefoot on the 13th and 14th of December, 12pm to 5pm. Artists will
- [Dinosaur prints!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/dinosaur-prints/) - VIsitors to Manchester Museum were able to create their own colourful relief prints as part of Dinosaur Day . A range of activities including story telling, creating sock dinosaurs, fossil handling alongside printmaking, saw huge numbers of visitors taking part. Over 120 artists young, and old took part, all leaving happily with their prints under
- [Printing for charity.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-for-charity/) - Over 300 visitors attended the 10th open studio at Prospect Studio. To commemorate the event a limited edition of prints and ink drawings were produced by Jill Randall , Alan Birch and Liam Spencer which were raffled off to raise funds for Rossendale Rays, a local special needs swimming group based in Rossendale. The generosity of visitors
- [Reveal 2014](https://alanbirch.co.uk/reveal-2014/) - Over 300 visitors attended the 10th open studio at Prospect Studio. Jill Randall showed her recent prints and shed constructions, Liam Spencer showed a selection of paintings and Alan Birch revealed some new Saint monoprints and colour lino prints! The studios celebrated their tenth year in the Rossendale Valley, following their relocation from Salford, with visitors
- [Burnley has talent!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/burnley-has-talent/) - Pupils from Blessed Trinity Roman Catholic College, produced some excellent work as part of a printing day with artist Alan Birch. The pupils from year 9-11 worked through a variety of print techniques ranging from drypoint to relief and chine colle developing images from coursework. Their drawing skills shone through their work , and they
- [Festive prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/festive-prints-2/) - Newcomers to the printing process, spent the morning printing intaglio plates onto Christmas cards at Touchstones in Rochdale. The group of 17 adults explored the intaglio process producing some excellent cards, some even ventured into combining relief and intaglio techniques. Most artists were able to complete two cards, with others taking 3 home. A great
- [Penmon Prints!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/penmon-prints/) - Members from Prospect Print class spent an enjoyable and creative day at Penmon Point on Anglesey, using the lighthouse and the superb scenery to produce some excellent prints. Printers made the most of the glorious weather to explore mono prints, drypoints and chine colle. Food was partaken and even porpoises made an appearance, but did
- [10th Birthday!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/10th-birthday/) - Prospect Studios will celebrate their tenth year in the Rossendale Valley over the weekend of 4th and 5th of October. The studios will be open over the weekend from 11-4 with artists Alan Birch, Jill Randall and Liam Spencer exhibiting their work. Work will be for sale and all artists will be in residence to
- [Printing the City.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-the-city/) - Over 100 , soon to be Year 7 Pupils from Manchester Academy spent a day working with teacher Caithy Martin and artist Alan Birch producing art based on the theme of the city as part of the Academy summer school. Pupils began the day looking at the work of Alan Birch, before moving on to
- [Macclesfield Print!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/macclesfield-print/) - Alan Birch and fellow printmaker Gary Thomas will be showing and selling their work in Macclesfield on Saturday the 20th of September. I will be showing drypoints and etchings together with some new lino cuts. All are welcome to attend and drop by for a chat!
- [Headline News!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/headline-news/) - Over 45 Year 9 pupils from Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School, spent a morning producing drypoint prints with artist Alan Birch. Alan who works at Prospect Studio, less than 300 yards from the school, brought in a range of bizarre news headlines from around the world, complimented by numerous stories provided by the school.
- [Talking Heads](https://alanbirch.co.uk/talking-heads/) - Adults at Touchstones Rochdale spent a morning working with artist Alan Birch, producing a series of prints based on portraits. Artists initially worked from the portraits of prominent Rochdale figures, featured in the exhibition, before moving onto portraits of their own. For many this was their first taste of printing and the quality of the
- [Night at the Museum](https://alanbirch.co.uk/night-at-the-museum-3/) - International students spent Sunday evening in Manchester museum, listening to music, privately viewing the exhibits and printing with artist Alan Birch. Nearly 200 students were introduced to the world of print, working in the shadow of T - Rex, a unique venue. Some brilliant drypoints were produced of the dinosaurs, fossils and animals.
- [Egypt at Barnoldswick.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-in-west-didsbury/) - COATES LANE PRIMARY SCHOOL For a week in June 2014, artists Alan Birch and Felix Evans worked with Year 5 at Coates Lane Primary School producing a body of work on the theme of Egypt. Over a period of 5 days pupils worked tirelessly and enthusiastically, exploring a range of printmaking, drawing and painting techniques
- [Flags and symbols](https://alanbirch.co.uk/flags-and-symbols/) - Alan Birch spent an inspiring day at Stockport School printing with 60 Year 7-9 pupils as apart of their enrichment day. Working from the theme of flags of the Commonwealth, pupils chose shapes from the flags to create their own colourful relief print using wallpaper. Some pupils incorporated symbols of sports from the games to
- [Art Fairs in the North West.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/art-fairs-in-the-north-west/) - Alan Birch and Jill Randall showed their work at the RNCM in Manchester and at the St Mary's Centre in Chester. The steals were a success, selling prints, recruiting new class members and selling prints. Both the fairs were new events and will most likely take place next year. At the RNCM stall holders were
- [Printing in Didsbury.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-in-didsbury/) - Year 7 pupils from Cavendish Road Primary School were introduced to the world of print, working with artist Alan Birch. Having worked with Alan at the Whitworth Art Gallery in previous years, pupils were able to look at Alans work on the intenet and prepare questions in advance. Both classes of Year 7 pupils researched
- [Cyanotype  session](https://alanbirch.co.uk/cyanotype-session/) - Artists Ian Clegg and Angela Tait introduced members of Prospect Studio print group to the technique of cyanotype. Artists worked with a range of subjects, some pre-prepared jpegs, leaves etc which were then exposed onto paper, specially prepared with photographic chemicals. The results were stunning. There are plans to hold another workshop later in the
- [Sun Arts Group](https://alanbirch.co.uk/sun-arts-group/) - Members of Sun Arts group attended a print workshop led by Alan Birch at Touchstones in Rochdale. Participants looked at the work currently on display in the gallery focussing on landscapes and natural forms found in paintings. Artists later used these images to produce an illustrated alphabet. Techniques such as relief printing and engravings were
- [Thomas Holford prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/thomas-holford-prints/) - Year 9 pupils from Blessed Thomas Holford School in Altrincham enjoyed a day of printmaking for their last day of the Winter Term. Pupils used natural forms as their starting point to produce drypoints and relief prints for their coursework. Impressive work was produced.
- [Family printing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/family-printing/) - For the first time, a family joined regular printmakers at Prospect Studio, to produce a body of lino prints and etchings. Sadie 10, joined parents Simon And Clare to create etchings and collographs.
- [Egypt revisited.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/egypt-revisited/) - 140 year 9 pupils from Wardle High School and Droylsden Academy experienced printmaking for the first time with artist Alan Birch.The sessions looked at portraits from the Egyptian collection. Drawings were engraved into card plates which were inked and printed to show how pupils can represent themselves in a variety of media. Pupils visited Manchester
- [Printing in Sheffield](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-in-sheffield-2/) - For the second year running, Year 3 pupils from Totley Primary School in Sheffield, worked with artist Alan Birch, investigating the world of printmaking. Pupils had already undertaken extensive research, looking into screen printing, the work of William Paxton and looked at pattern and symmetry. Having the luxury of a full day, the pupils were
- [Lino weekend.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/2038/) - A great weekend of multi colour lino printing took place at Prospect with Stuart Brocklehurst. 7 artists were shown the process of hand printing using water based inks by the artist and the results were stunning. There is a possibility of a future weekend taking place later in the year. If anyone is interested let
- [Monsters at the Whitaker!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/monsters-at-the-whitaker/) - Over 30 people produced surreal collages and intaglio prints at the Whitaker over half term. The creative sessions run in conjunction with the paintings of John Hyatt, were run by local printmaker Alan Birch. Using magic and spells as a starting point participants created their own monsters using a vast collection of collaged images. These
- [Printing from artists.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-from-artists/) - Families at Bury Art Gallery had a colourful morning with artist Alan Birch during half term. Parents and children used their prints on the work of Matisse, Kandinsky and Miro, cutting an array of shapes from textured wallpapers. These were thin inked and printed using water based inks. Many took them home to frames for
- [Mixed Media Printing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mixed-media-printing/) - Printmaker Alan Birch spent a day working with staff from Manchester Catholic Schools and Colleges at Xavarian College in Rusholme. Over 20 staff worked with various media including textiles, iPad and print, many combining media to produce sumptuous images. Participants were able top experiment with Gum Arabic printing, intaglio and relief printing. On their return
- [Identity Blog.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/identity-blog/) - Museum Learning blog Excellent sessions at the museum. Amazed that the pupils managed to draw, engrave, ink and print their portraits in 40 minutes. Incredible! Alan
- [Studio Blog.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/studio-blog/) - The Whit worth Art Gallery are currently developing their new education space. Researcher Elizabeth Driver is currently working on a blog for the gallery, giving insights into artists studios. For more info see. http://whitworthstudiothinking.wordpress.com/2014/02/11/alan-birch-print-maker/?
- [Identity at Manchester Museum](https://alanbirch.co.uk/identity-at-manchester-museum/) - Pupils from Droylsden Academy and Wardle High visited Manchester Museum for a day of activities as part of an Identity project, taking place over the next few weeks at the Museum and School. Pupils took part in short workshops at the museum ranging from looking at Egyptian life, CSI Athens, Celebrities and Shabtis and creative
- [Aftermath at Rylands.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/aftermath-at-rylands/) - As part of the aftermath exhibition at John Rylands Library on Deansgate in Manchester, I will be showing a small selection of etchings from the series " Disasters of War " inspired by the series of 83 etchings produced by Goya. The exhibition which opens on 13th February 6-8 brings together examples of protest, reflection,
- [New prints from Prospect!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-prints-from-prospect/) - A busy weekend took place at Prospect with 13 artists producing new prints for the new year. Here are a selection from Gary Thomas, Pam Holstein and Kay Widdowson.
- [New Saints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-saints/) - I am slowly progressing towards my target of 84 saints. I am now at 75 and nearing the conclusion of the series. Will be at the store of the British Museum next week, photographing their hidden collection of wooden medieval saints, mainly taken from French churches. If anyone has any recommendations for saints to add,
- [Studio visit](https://alanbirch.co.uk/studio-visit/) - Students from Wigan and Leigh college, visited Prospect Studios as part of their course. The students were shown round the studio, home to Alan Birch,Liam Spencer and Jill Randall and then produced a series of prints from their journals. Students produced a range of prints including engravings, relief prints, chine collie and mixed media works.
- [NIght at the Museum!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/night-at-the-museum-2/) - New international students arriving in Manchester, were given the opportunity of working with printmaker Alan Birch as part of a creative taster of what Manchester has to offer. The workshop based in the rooms housing the fossils and mineral collections, saw over 80 students take part producing some excellent engravings. Some students were drawn to
- [Animal engravings.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/animal-engravings/) - Families took part in a creative printmaking workshop at Bury Art Gallery and Museum as part of the Prospect Studio print exhibition which runs until 22nd February. Participants produced drawings and later transformed these into engravings.Families spent the session producing numerous prints and even added collage to their work! Alan Birch will be running a
- [Touchstones event](https://alanbirch.co.uk/touchstones-event/) - Artists Alan Birch and Jill Randall worked with numerous children as part of the Rochdale Christmas markets the day before Christmas Eve. In spite of the poor weather conditions, participants produced wire stars and greetings cards and some stayed for hours.
- [Celebration of print!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/celebration-of-print/) - To celebrate the launch of the limited edition of prints by Prospect Studio members, artists took part in a pre Christmas launch. The box featuring work by 26 members features a range of techniques.
- [Prints at Prospect &The Boo! ](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prints-at-prospect-the-boo/) - A one off opportunity to buy some unique presents! Saturday and Sunday 14th and 15th of December . The Boo Christmas Fair, Waterfoot, Lancs. Members of Prospect Studio Print class will be showing and selling their work at The Boo! in Waterfoot. The Boo an established puppet theatre for 20 years , will have events,
- [25 Years of Print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/25-years-of-print/) - Artists celebrated 25 years of printmaking at Prospect Studio before Christmas, receiving a limited edition boxed collection of 26 prints. The print collection featuring etchings, lino prints, collographs, photo etchings and chine colle prints reflects prints executed at Prospect Studios and Manchester Artists Studio Association in the last 25 years. Artists from as far away
- [TIm Bobbin at the Rochdale Literature Festival](https://alanbirch.co.uk/tim-bobbin-at-the-rochdale-literature-festival/) - Members of Milnrow Art Group, exhibited the results of a short residency with printmaker Alan Birch at the new Library in Rochdale. The Festival was officially opened by the mayor, and artists were in such illustrious company as Carl Ann Duffy and Simon Armitage who performed over the weekend. The group showed a selection of
- [Prospect Prints at Bury](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prospect-prints-at-bury/) - Members of the Prospect Studios print class will be showing their prints at Bury Art Museum from the 30th November 2013 to the 22nd February 2014.The exhibition including the work of 27 artists will feature a variety of printmaking techniques.Work is for sale sand the museum shop will feature a selection of mounted prints and
- [Editions Complete!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/editions-complete/) - 10 printmakers from Prospect Studio have just completed their editions to be sent to Hot Bed Press. The prints which will become part of the Hot Bed Press 20:20 national print exchange, feature a range of subjects and techniques.
- [Tim Bobbin.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/tim-bobbin/) - Alan Birch will soon be working with Milnrow Art Club, working on the theme of the work of Tim Bobbin. Artists will be producing series of drypoints , a election of which will hopefully be exhibited as part of Arts and Literature week in Rochdale. Watch this space as the project develops.
- [Night at the Museum](https://alanbirch.co.uk/night-at-the-museum/) - Printmaker Alan Birch gave freshers at Manchester University their first fast of print on the evening of 20th September in Manchester Museum. Over 95 excited students engraved their own prints, taking as their reference point the displays in Nature's Gallery, and thoroughly enjoyed the evenings creativity, music and drinks! The word " awesome " was
- [REVEAL 2013](https://alanbirch.co.uk/reveal-2013/) - REVEAL OPEN STUDIO EVENT 28th - 29th SEPTEMBER 2013 ( 11.00-16.00 ) Just a reminder to let you know that I will be showing my work as part of the Reveal on the weekend of 28th and 29th of September 2013 in Waterfoot , Rossendale, Lancs. I will be showing a selection of prints for
- [First Taste of Print!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/first-taste-of-print/) - Pupils at Ridgewood Community Hiogh School in Burnley, experienced their first taste of printmaking when artist Alan Birch took his portable etching press into their school during the summer term. Relief prints and dry points were produced on the theme of the Jungle, and the prints were used to enhance pupils coursework. With the aid
- [Manchester Academicians!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/manchester-academicians/) - During August Alan Birch worked with pupils from Manchester Academy at the Whitworth in Manchester. New Year 7 Pupils were part of the Summer School of Manchester Academy and produced a range of prints and drawings , inspired by exhibitions at the Whitworth. Pupils produced relief prints, engravings and drawings together with creative writing and
- [Printing in the Park](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-in-the-park/) - As part of the creative festival to commemorate the temporary closure off the Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester, Alan Birch ran a successful print workshop in Whitworth Park on the last weekend of August. Luckily the weather held and over 120 people took part in the drypoint workshop. the weekend was a huge success
- [Class news](https://alanbirch.co.uk/class-news/) - Chris and Loraine Waites, class members for over 20 years are showing their work at Editions in Liverpool, the show will show their work in a variety of media. Congratulations! Private view - Thursday 5th September 5.30-8.00pm Exhibition continues until 28th SeptemberA fortuitous meeting at a workshop at the Bluecoat resulted in
- [Printing History.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-history/) - Over 30 Year 10 pupils from Carr Hill Community College, listened to the horrors of the Holocaust, when a talk was given at school by a Holocaust survivor. Pupils made notes from the talk which formed the basis for large drypoints which were enhanced by their own research from the period. Pupils produced some excellent
- [Teen prints!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/teen-prints/) - The Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester will be offering children from 11-16 the opportunity to learn new creative skills this summer. The weekly sessions will explore a whole host of creative activities from printmaking to sculpture. The first session led by Alan Birch focussed on the exhibition of traditional and contemporary wallpapers currently on show.
- [Wellacre Academy Print!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/wellacre-academy-print/) - Year 10 students from Wellacre Academy in Irlam , explored the world of print with artist Alan Birch in July. Students enhanced their drawing skills , producing a series of intaglio and relief prints. Using the theme of natural forms for their work,students engraved their own plates which they later printed. The prints strengthened their
- [Printing at Claypool](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-at-claypool/) - Year 3 and year 1 pupils at Claypool Primary School in Bolton, were introduced to the world of printmaking when artist Alan Birch spent in day at school. Year 3 pupils explored the theme of the Aztecs, which they were studying at school. Images of gods and craft objects were transformed into drawings then into
- [Printing at St James, Bolton.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-at-st-james-bolton/) - During the months of June and July 2012, Alan Birch worked with over 400 secondary pupils in a number of schools within Tameside, Manchester , Bolton and Salford. Pupils explored a wide range of print techniques, including drypoint, chine colle, collage, chine collie, relief printing and mono printing. Themes explored were self, identity, mexico day of the
- [Prints in Bury](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prints-in-bury/) - Chris and Lorraine Waites, etching class stalwarts for 20 years are currently showing their work at the Malt Bar in Bury. They have over around 30 works on display at the venue and have sold around 15. Its a great exhibition showcasing their talents and is not to be missed. A Pop along , view
- [Totley Printing Report](https://alanbirch.co.uk/totley-printing-report/) - To celebrate the completion of their investigation into the world of print. year 3 pupils from Totley Primary School in Sheffield spent a day working with printmaker Alan Birch. Pupils, teachers and artists braved the snowy weather to complete their work.The pupils had already researched the work of Guttenberg, Berwick amongst others and created relief
- [Inspired by Colour!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/inspired-by-colour/) - Alan Birch has been working with curator Martyn Lucas at the Turnpike Gallery in Leigh in conjunction with an exhibition of prints by Gillian Ayres from the Alan Cristea Gallery in London. The vivid, life affirming prints have inspired both primary and secondary pupils to produced colourful relief prints. so far over 250 pupils have
- [Gillian Ayres at Turnpike](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gillian-ayres-at-turnpike/) - The prints of Gillian Ayres will be on display at the Turnpike Gallery in Leigh for April and May. This life affirming show features over 40 works on paper from the Alan Cristea Gallery in London. Gillian who is best known for her vivid, painterly abstract paintings is still working well into her 80's and
- [Natures Library](https://alanbirch.co.uk/natures-library/) - To celebrate the opening of the new display " Natures Library " at Manchester Museum, Alan Birch spent a day printing with families . Children took their inspiration from the natural world, and printed silhouettes of natural forms onto shaped leaves. Participants printed two copies, one to take home, and one to add to the
- [Academicians prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/academicians-prints/) - GCSE students from Accrington Academy spent an entire day with printmaker Alan Birch, working in a variety of print techniques to enhance their coursework, prior to starting their exam work. 20 pupils worked tirelessly experimenting with intaglio, relief and collaged prints. Working on the theme of natural forms the novice printmakers, used their coursework to
- [Printing in Sheffield](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-in-sheffield/) - To celebrate the completion of their investigation into the world of print. year 3 pupils from Totley Primary School in Sheffield spent a day working with printmaker Alan Birch. Pupils, teachers and artists braved the snowy weather to complete their work.The pupils had already researched the work of Guttenberg, Berwick amongst others and created relief
- [Printing Frenzy.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-frenzy/) - Teachers from Manchester Catholic secondary and sixth form colleges came together at Loreto sixth form college in Hulme to explore the world of print. Exploring the theme of landscape and pattern, and working alongside artist Helen Hallows, teachers expressed themselves freely through the technique of collograph, relief and drypoint. Using wallpapers. water based inks and
- [Mehndi prints!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mehndi-prints/) - Pupils from Cavendish Primary School visited the Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester to work with artist Alan birch to produce some exquisite relief prints. The prints using patterned wallpapers, some incredibly from the Whitworth collection of sample books from over 100 years ago, took their inspiration from Mehndi body decoration. The pupils were well prepared
- [Printing Opportunities!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-opportunities/) - Feel the urge to print? Alan Birch will be running workshops at various locations within the North West over the next few months. Workshops will be taking place at:- Whitworth Art Gallery in March linked to John Piper exhibition www.whitworth.manchester.ac.uk/ ( adults ) John Rylands Library in March and April in conjunction with the
- [Lino weekend](https://alanbirch.co.uk/lino-weekend/) - Regular printmakers from Prospect Studio worked with Yorkshire printer Stuart Brocklehurst for a weekend in February. Over 2 days artists produced 6 colour reduction lino cuts, some printed by hand as demonstrated by Stuart. Stuart demonstrated his hand burnishing technique and showed examples of his landscape prints. A wide variety of prints were made ,
- [Inspired by Piper](https://alanbirch.co.uk/inspired-by-piper/) - The current exhibition of landscape paintings at the Whitworth in Manchester has inspired several groups to produce prints ay the Whitworth and Manchester Central Library. For Wellbeing week, a range of artists , some students and staff from Manchester University experienced printmaking for the first time in sessions let by Alan Birch.
- [Seaside prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/seaside-prints/) - Alan Birch worked with members of Blackpool Art Society to produce a range of images using a variety of print techniques. Members were introduced to collograph, perspex drypoint, chine collie and card engraving during a busy day. Artists worked tirelessly throughout the day, many completing over 6 prints.
- [Bury Grammar School for Boys](https://alanbirch.co.uk/bury-grammar-school-for-boys/) - Pupils from the sixth form and GCSE classes spent a day printing with Alan Birch at school. Studies from sketchbooks were used to create collographs, dry points and chine collie images. These prints will be used to compliment GCSE coursework and A Level work.
- [Cultured prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/cultured-prints/) - Pupils from the Blessed Thomas Holford School in Altrincham spent the day trying out print techniques with artist Alan Birch. BTEC pupils worked on a variety of collograph and dry points, whilst Year 10 pupils experimenterd with drypoints. Themes were landscape and images inspired by other cultures. An excellent body of work was produced which
- [Inspired by Blake](https://alanbirch.co.uk/inspired-by-blake/) - In March 2013 Alan Birch led a series of printmaking workshops for adults at John Rylands Library in Manchester. Using the work of William Blake, artists engraved copper plates and later hand coloured some drypoints. Some excellent prints were produced and would not look out of police next to the Blakes. Alan Birch will be
- [Students visit Prospect.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/students-visit-prospect/) - Over 40 students from Blackburn College recently visited Prospect Studio to view the work of Alan Birch. Liam Spencer and Jill Randall. Pupils toured the studios, gleaning career advice from the artists and asking relevant questions for their course.
- [Printing at Manchester Museum](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-at-manchester-museum/) - Over the Easter holidays, Alan Birch will be running printing workshops At Manchester Museum . The workshops will use as their starting point, the current exhibition Breeds, looking at the world of Pedigree dogs. Families will be asked to print colourful dog silhouette prints and also to create dog people on intaglio prints. The workshops
- [Printing Piper](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printing-piper/) - A dedicated bunch of artists spent the Easter weekend in the Whitworth Art Gallery, producing a copious body of prints ranging from dry points and mono prints to collographs. Using the work of John Piper as inspiration some rich inky dry points and mono prints were produced and vivid sensual collographs. Enough work was produced
- [Woof Woof!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/woof-woof/) - Families used their artistic skills and imagination to produce prints at Manchester Museum inspired by the Breeds exhibition. The show which has a week left to run features 6 breeds of pedigree dogs and these breeds featured in relief prints and intaglio prints. The colourful relief prints made from wallpaper showed dogs wearing items of
- [William Blake at Rylands](https://alanbirch.co.uk/william-blake-at-rylands/) - Feel inspired to print ? Pop along with family members for free printing workshops inspired by Blake at John Rylands on Deansgate. Workshops take place on 5th and 11th April. All welcome.
- [War show comes to an end.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/war-prints-on-show/) - Alan Birch will be showing 20 of his prints from the series of 83 etchings based on Goya’s Disasters of War. The exhibition “ War “ will be on at the Bradford Gallery, in the Yorkshire Craft Centre, Bradford College from 25th January to 22nd February 2013. The gallery is open 11am to 4
- [Screen printing!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/screen-printing/) - Alan Birch has just taken delivery of some new silk screen frames and fabric ink, should anyone be interested in organising a screen printing workshop, please contact me. Below are some past examples of T - shirt printing.
- [Rakes progress prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/rakes-progress-prints/) - In conjunction with the exhibition of etchings " the Rakes Progress" by David Hockney, pupils from Manchester College produced some excellent prints based on their own life experiences. As part of the portfolio development day pupils also chatted to education staff and degree students. Hi Alan Thanks so much for getting back
- [Festive Fairs!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/festive-fairs/) - Congratulations and thanks to all the class members who took part in the various fairs and markets during November and December. In spite of tough times sales were buoyant at Manchester, Chorlton and Bury. Over 50 prints were sold and numerous cards found their way to new homes. Particular thanks to Chris and Lorraine for
- [Independent Prints!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/independent-prints/) - Art teachers from the Liverpool Heads of Art and Design explored the potential of printmaking as part of their training day in December. Teachers welcomed the chance to be creative and produced intaglio , chine colle and relief prints in the art department . The day proved so successful that other schools have enquired about
- [Bargain Buys!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/bargain-buys/) - A PRINT IS NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS, THEY GIVE PLEASURE ALL YEAR ROUND! Following on from a successful tour of the North West , Printmakers from Prospect Studio will be return to the studio to embark on new work for 2013 over the weekend of 8th and 9th December. On Saturday December the 8th from
- [Christmas Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/christmas-prints/) - Printmakers from Prospect Studio will be showing their prints at 3 venues in the coming months. The fairs will feature the usual mix of subjects and techniques, but prints will be sold without gallery commission direct from the artists. So come and grab yourself an original print at a bargain price.! Exchange Square, Manchester. 17th
- [Mancini meeting](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mancini-meeting/) - Alan Birch visited Manchester City's Carrington training ground to present a copy on St Last Minute to manager Roberto Mancini.The limited edition print inspired by City's last minute winner to secure the Premier League title last May, is part of an ongoing series of Latter Day Saints. The image is a contemporary take on saintly images
- [Hockney early prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/hockney-early-prints/) - The Whitworth Art Gallery will be showing David Hockney's prints The Rakes Progress from October to January.The exhbition will also feature prints by Hogarth which inspired the prints by Hockney The exhibition will also feature paintings from the same period in the 60's. Workshops are also possible to arrange with the gallery. http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151263576177704&set=a.10151263574887704.523348.733807703&type=1&relevant_count=1&ref=nf
- [Gum arabic print day.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gum-arabic-print-day/) - Chris and Lorraine Waites introduced artists to the contemporary technique of Gum Arabic printing. The technique using photocopies and paper lithographic plates produces rich images and is relatively simple. Plans are afoot to hold another short course for interested artists. Contact website for details.
- [Reveal update](https://alanbirch.co.uk/reveal-update/) - Over 240 visitors passed through Prospect Studios over the Reveal weekend, many first time visitors! The new series of Contemporary Saints went down well with visitors, causing amusement and intrigue. Many visitors purchased new Gum Arabic prints and the Modern Monsters found new homes to haunt!
- [Print at Penmon](https://alanbirch.co.uk/print-at-penmon/) - The backdrop of Snowdonia and the lighthouse by Puffin Island were the inspiration for plein air artworks in September as four printmakers, made the most of the location. Sketches and etchings featuring the landmarks were developed during the day before artists enjoyed the hospitality. If anyone is interested in future workshops contact Alan.
- [Halloween ideas](https://alanbirch.co.uk/halloween-ideas/) - Printmaking offers great scope for schools to develop work to celebrate and research the Mexican Festival Day of the Dead. This festival which celebrates life can be used as a vehicle to explore other cultures, through sculpture and print. Having spent a lengthy period im Mexico during the Festival, I have a great selection of
- [REVEAL 2012 ](https://alanbirch.co.uk/reveal-2012/) - Just a reminder to let you know that I will be showing my work as part of the Reveal on the weekend of 22nd and 23rd of September 2012 in Waterfoot , Rossendale, Lancs. I will be showing a selection of prints for your pleasure, and focussing on my new series “ Contemporary Saints “
- [Witches spell!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/witches-spell/) - Alan Birch will be showing his work as part of the Pendle International Print Biennial which takes part on September 1st and 2nd 2012 at Higherford Mill near Nelson. Alan will be showing a variety of prints including the on going series Contemporary Saints, Monsters , Dancing with the Devil and others. The inaugural Pendle
- [Gum Arabic Day](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gum-arabic-day/) - Printmakers Chris and Lorraine Waites demonstrated the process of Gum Arabic printing at Prospect Studios in Waterfoot. Artists were shown many ways to produce prints from photocopies and drawn plates. A variety of rich images were produced on this short course, which may be repeated at a later date.
- [Pendle Print Fest.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pendle-print-fest-2/) - Alan Birch will be showing his work as part of the Pendle International Print Biennial which takes part on September 1st and 2nd 2012 at Higherford Mill near Nelson. Alan will be showing a variety of prints including the on going series Contemporary Saints, Monsters , Dancing with the Devil and others. The inaugural Pendle
- [Saints Alive!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/saints-alive/) - Alan Birch is currently working on a new series of mono prints and etchings, based on medieval saints. Inspired by seeing a series of woodcarvings in the Wellcome collection in London, these saintly figures were used to alleviate medical conditions.Alan has brought these into the contemporary world by combining saints from early illustrations and adding
- [Public Art](https://alanbirch.co.uk/public-art/) - Year 9 Pupils from Newall Green High School, worked with artists Sara Marsh and Alan Birch to explore the world of Public Art. Pupils viewed the public art pieces outside the Whitworth and in Whitworth Park, and were encouraged to give their views on the pieces. Later pupils drew inspiration from the works in the
- [Residents create](https://alanbirch.co.uk/residents-create/) - Over a period of 5 weeks residents at Berkeley Court in Didsbury will be working with artist Alan Birch in conjunction with the Whitworth Art Gallery to produce a series of drawings and prints to display in their communal area. Residents will visit the We Face Forward exhibition at the Whitworth Art Gallery, and explore
- [Anansi the Spider.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/anansi-the-spider/) - . As part of the We Face Forward exhibition currently on show at various venues in Manchester , prints produced by artist Alan Birch and members of the African Caribbean Carers Group are on display in the foyer of Manchester Museum. Working with Andrea Winn at Manchester Museum, centre users have been using printmaking to
- [Health and Wellbeing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/health-and-wellbeing/) - Artists Alan Birch and Lucy Burscough worked with patients from the Adult Acute Care Ward in Manchester Hospital, working on memories from Belle Vue Zoological Gardens. Patients told of their memories of happy times spent at the attraction. One patient even told of the time the wrestler Big Daddy drank in their local pub! From
- [Pupils print!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pupils-print-2/) - In June, Alan Birch worked with the entire pupil population of Christ Church Primary School in Chadderton. All pupils worked on the theme of "Patterns in Our World", cutting shapes from patterned wallpaper prior to his visit to the school. A printing studio was created where all pupils experienced the joy and magic of printing. With
- [Secondary Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/secondary-prints/) - During the months of June and July, Alan Birch worked with over 400 secondary pupils in a number of schools within Tameside, Manchester , Bolton and Salford. Pupils explored a wide range of print techniques, including drypoint, chine colle, collage, chine collie, relief printing and mono printing. Themes explored were self, identity, mexico day of the dead
- [Working with Wellbeing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/working-with-wellbeing/) - As part of the Working for Wellbeing Conference held in Preston in July, Alan Birch ran a short printing session for attended by a host of representatives from the health and gallery sectors. The conference featured inspirational and informative inputs from Mike White, Sue Hacking and Emma Varman. In the short printing session artists created
- [Saints today!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/saints-today/) - I am currently working on a new body of work , exploring the subject of Saints and Martyrs. The starting point for the series was hearing that Roberto Mancini had been to church on the final day of the season, which seemed to have been successful. The first monoprint was Saint Last Minute, followed by
- [Pendle Print Fest](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pendle-print-fest/) - Alan Birch and Jill Randall will be exhibiting their work at the Pendle print Fest in Barrowford on the weekend of 1st and 2nd of September 2012. The Festival will run in conjunction with a print exhibition by Paula Rego at Colne Library. The print exhibition on the theme of the Pendle Witches is not
- [Stockport Open 2012](https://alanbirch.co.uk/stockport-open-2012/) - Congratulations to class members Jo Beggs, Carolyn Murphy, Neil Robinson and Pete Marsh for being selected for this North West open exhibition. The exhibition runs for a couple of weeks yet.
- [Monster Fund Raiser](https://alanbirch.co.uk/monster-fund-raiser/) - On Wednesday the 30th of May, Castlefield Art Gallery will be hosting a fund raising auction. The auction featuring 60+ original artworks from nationally and internationally acclaimed artists/curators many of whom have worked with Castlefield Gallery before such as Pavel Büchler (Northern Art Prize 2009 winner), Leo Fitzmaurice (Northern Ar...See More. Alan Birch has donated
- [Prints at Tate.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prints-at-tate/) - In June Alan Birch will be holding a series of drop in printing sessions for families at the Tate, Liverpool. The sessions from 1.30-4.oo in the half term week of 4th to 9th June and Friday evening 18th May, will use the works in the permanent collection, focussing on work from their modern collection. It
- [London visit](https://alanbirch.co.uk/london-visit/) - In May Alan Birch visited London together with Wendy Gallagher ( Whitworth Art Gallery ) and Lucy Burscough ( artist ) as part of a research and development project linked to the Culture Shots programme organised by the Manchester Galleries and Museums and Manchester Hospitals. As part of the visit I visited the exhibition on
- [Printmakers in Germany.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printmakers-in-germany/) - Printmakers from Prospect Studio showed a selection of their work, As part of the Bocholt Art Market in Germany. Artist Andrew Holland kindly took a selection of works from Rossendale artists to Germany . This followed up a show in Bocholt by 12 artists from the valley, which was well received. No doubt the people of
- [The Hajj](https://alanbirch.co.uk/the-haj/) - Explore the Hajj experience Saturday 31st March, 1pm-4pm. Look at Idris Khan: The Devil's Wall and Ahmed Mater: Magnetism, and take part in artist led workshops. Free!Explore the Hajj experience in various spaces around the gallery. Look at our exhibitions, Idris Khan: The Devil's Wall and Ahmed Mater: Magnetism, and take part in artist led
- [Anansi project.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/anansi-project/) - During April ,artist Alan Birch has been working with the African Caribbean Carers Group and Andrea Winn at Manchester Museum. Centre users have been using printmaking to illustrate the Anansi story told by group member , Grace .Relief printing, collograph and drypoint techniques were employed to tell the sort of Anansi flying between Bird Cherry
- [Gordon Cheung prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gordon-cheung-prints/) - Families explored the work of Gordon Cheung in a printmaking workshop at Touchstones during the Easter holidays. The mixed media, large scale paintings often using pages of the Financial Times as an integral part of the painting surface, fascinated adults and children alike. Artists drew from the paintings and later incorporated collage into their prints,
- [RA Entries!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ra-entries/) - Alan Birch and Jill Randall drop off works by six artists from Prospect Studio, at the Royal Academy in London. Prints by Lynne Kirkley, David Norris, John Hamilton, Karen Lester, Lucy Gell and Alan Birch were submitted and the artists must wait until May to discover if they are successful. Who knows you may see
- [African images!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/african-images/) - Year 10 Pupils from Ladybridge High School visited the Whitworth, spent the day working with artists Elizabeth Scott-Cousins and Alan Birch at Whitworth Art Gallery, using the Global Threads show as inspiration.Working with Alan pupils worked from the paintings inspired by African Textiles painted by Lubiana Himid. Pupils produced dry points combined with relief shapes.
- [Day of Dead!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/day-of-dead/) - Year 10 pupils at Oulder Hill Community College, spent the day working with printmaker Alan Birch, producing prints on the theme of Day of the Dead. The colourful Mexican Festival provided rich subject matter as pupils were shown a slide show of festivities and craft objects. Pupils depicted themselves as skeleton ( calveras ) carrying
- [Miro at YSP!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/miro-at-ysp/) - The new exhibition at Yorkshire Sculpture Park features sculptures and large prints by Joan Miro. For anyone who has not been to the Sculpture Park I would highly recommend it. The galleries feature etchings, aquatints , lithographs and carborundum prints by the Spanish maestro.
- [](https://alanbirch.co.uk/culture-shots-2012/) - A whole host of creative activities took place in Manchester Hospitals as part of Museums and Galleries Week in February 2012. Artists and curators worked with patients, nurses and visitors , delivering over 70 workshops , lectures and drop in sessions over 5 hospitals. Alan Birch delivered a colourful printing session at the Manchester children's
- [Coursework and Print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/coursework-and-print/) - In the run up to the February half term alan has been working in a number of schools , introducing pupils to the creative world of print. Most recent schools have been Stockport School and Accrington Academy, where over 50 pupils developed their work into three print techniques. Over 200 proofs were taken as
- [Global Threads.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/global-threads-2/) - Over the half term break nearly 400 children and their parents worked with printmaker alan Birch, transforming their drawings into exquisite five colour relief prints. Basing their drawings on the recently opened exhibition Global Threads, participants cut shapes from a range of embossed wallpapers, which were then printed by Alan and his team. The work
- [Celebration!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/celebration/) - Pupils from St Andrews C of E Primary School, Hadfield proudly exhibited their work at school, as part of a project for the Hadfield and Padfield Heritage Trail. Children printed a range of logos on t-shirts, symbols of mills and history on shopping backs, made metres of bunting and a bound book of their prints
- [Waterside Open.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/waterside-open/) - Congratulations to artists who have had prints selected for the Waterside Open 2012 exhibition. Jo Beggs, Pete Marsh, Karen Lester, Lucy Gell. The show at Waterside Art Centre in Sale runs from 11th February to 21st of April, will feature prints, paintings, sculpture and photography. www.watersideartscentre@trafford.gov.uk
- [Inspired by Morris](https://alanbirch.co.uk/inspired-by-morris/) - Children from St Cuthberts Primary School in Withington worked with artist Alan Birch at the Witworth Art Gallery, to produce a body of vibrant prints. The prints based on a combination of the textile designs of William Morris and natural forms were transformed into colourful printing blocks and then printed by the children themselves. The
- [Global Threads!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/global-threads/) - Alan Birch will be running fabric printing workshops inspired by the upcoming show at the Whitworth Art Gallery "Global Threads" . The exhibition from 11th of February to 13th of May 2012 tells the compelling story about the production, consumption and global trade in cotton. The workshops are free and will take place on 14th-17th
- [Paisley & Mehndi](https://alanbirch.co.uk/paisley-mehndi/) - The combination of Paisley pattern and Mehndi imagery were combined to brilliant effect by Year 4 pupils from Cavendish Primary School at the Whitworth Art Gallery. Pupils worked from sketchbook studies and gathered visual sources to draw and cut out a range of shapes and patterns. These were later inked and printed, the ink bringing
- [Todmorden schools tour.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/todmorden-schools-tour/) - During March and April, printmaker Alan Birch spent 8 days working with in all the primary schools in Todmorden. Over 400 pupils Key Stage 2 pupils produced relief and engraved prints based on a range of themes from Easter and Spring to fish, rivers and sea to the creative work of Kandinsky, Matisse and Van
- [Well done!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/well-done/) - Thanks to all those members of the printmaking class who took part in the Christmas Market Stall on King Street in Manchester. Despite the weather and the recession, 14 of the 18 printmakers, who displayed work, sold pieces. Undoubtedly had Sunday not rained all day we could have broken previous records. Congratulations to Chris Waites who
- [Gift ideas!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gift-ideas-3/) - New for 2011-2012 , Prospect Studio offers gift vouchers for those who wish to transform their work into limited edition prints. For £46 the voucher enables newcomers to attend the class and covers all materials, ( maximum zinc plate size 8 x 6 inches and take up to 4 final prints on Fabriano paper ).
- [Festive Gifts!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/festive-gifts/) - Short of a quirky, humorous gift for Christmas. The recently published book of prints by Alan Birch is the perfect present. The book features World Cup monoprints, Dancing with the Devil etchings amongst others. To see further information and pictures visit: To order: View my book at Blurb: http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/invited/1097271/7832c05e7dd282ac540c66e50290b561 Alan Birch. Book from Blurb Avialable
- [Constellations!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/constellations/) - The contemporary re-interpretation of the Northern Hemisphere makes the perfect Christmas present for those with a sense of humour, who have everything. At a cost of £50 for this limited edition digital print, it won't break the bank!
- [Belle Vue Memories!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/belle-vue-memories/) - Artist Alan Birch has been working with elderly patients suffering with Dementia at Manchester Royal Infirmary The project in conjunction with at the Whitworth Art Gallery, and the Manchester Museum, will offer patients the opportunity to learn about objects from the museum collection, work with artists and members of the Whitworth's education team. Patients were shown
- [Success!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/success/) - Congratulations are in order to Loraine and Chris Waites from Prospect Studios who are delighted to have a print each selected for the 8th British International Mini print Exhibition. Around 200 prints were selected to exhibit from over 1,100 prints submitted by 420 artists from over 30 countries. The exhibition will begin its 2 year
- [Teachers Print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/teachers-print/) - Art teachers from over Lancashire spent a day working with artist Alan Birch at St Abmrose Barlow in Salford. Following a look at Alan’s work ,a range of print techniques were covered ranging from monoprint to intaglio and perspex printing which will hopefully feed into the classroom. The day arranged by head of Art Bernie
- [20:20 Print Exchange.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/2020-print-exchange/) - Printmakers at Prospect Studio will soon be receiving their boxed prints from Hot Bed Press in Manchester as part of the 20 20 print exchange . Studios from around the British Isles have taken part and hundreds of prints have swapped hands. These will be on display at Hot Bed Press on weekend of
- [SUPER DUPER!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/super-duper/) - On November the 19th, 18 printmakers from Prospect Studio will be showing and selling their work at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool. The stall will display a range of techniques and diverse subjects. So if you wish to browse, buy or pop by for a chat: you are very welcome. Alan Birch will be on
- [Insects in print.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/insects-in-print/) - Year 11 pupils from St Gabriels High School in Bury, spent a day transforming their drawings into prints with artist Alan Birch, as part of their arts week.The theme of insects was used for the day and the excellent work produced will certainly enhance their GCSE coursework. The pupils produced over 120 prints during the
- [Hadfield Heritage.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/hadfield-heritage/) - Year 5 and 6 pupils have been busy over the last four weeks working with artist Alan Birch, investigating the history and wildlife of the local area. The project involving a number of schools and colleges in the area made possible by Heritage Lottery Funding and Front Room Arts Theatre, will see pupils producing bunting,
- [Back to the 50's](https://alanbirch.co.uk/back-to-the-50s/) - Year 1 pupils from in Manchester used the wallpaper collection at the Whitworth Art Gallery to inspire 5 colour relief prints . Pupils produced some wonderful drawings which were then transformed into printing plates and printed in the gallery. Visitors were keen to view their colourful and inspiring work! A wallpaper strip of designs!
- [Dark Prints!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/dark-prints/) - Students from Salford College worked with Alan Birch to produce atmospheric prints based on work currently on display in the Dark Matters exhibition at the Whitworth in Manchester. Students combined contemporary imagery with works from the permanent collection.
- [Gift Ideas!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gift-ideas-2/) - Members of the print classes at Prospect Studio will be showing their work at two venues in the North west in the coming weeks. Put a date in your diary to pop along to the Winter Gardens in Blackpool for the Super Duper Fair on Saturday the 19th November or visit the Manchester Christmas Markets
- [REVEALED](https://alanbirch.co.uk/revealed/) - Thanks to all the visitors 242 in all who braved the inclement weather to come to Reveal 2011. It was great to see friends and past visitors as well as numerous newcomers. Pleasing to see that so many people had good taste, and will build on the positive feedback. The series of Contemporary Monsters, 3
- [REVEAL OPENS](https://alanbirch.co.uk/reveal-opens/) - The work is mounted and framed. The studio is clean! Alan Birch will open his studio to the public today from 10.30-4 and tomorrow Sunday the 11th same time, as part of Rossendale Valley Reveal exhibition featuring the work of over 40 artists. Fellow studio members JIll Randall and Liam Spencer will also be showing
- [REVEAL 2011](https://alanbirch.co.uk/reveal-2011/) - Saturday and Sunday 10th and 11th September 2011. 11.00 am -4.00 pm. Once again the studios of Rossendale Valley will throw their doors open to visitors as part of Lancashire Food and Drink weekend. Whilst Prospect Studios will offer nibbles and refreshments, the main course will be the tasty sculptures and prints of Jill Randall,
- [Book your place!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/book-your-place/) - The new list of class dates for 2011-2012 are now out. Prices have been held at the same rates as the previous year, so take advantage now. Here are some examples of work produced over the years. Recent printmakers quotes: "Beth, my 15 year old daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed the day in your studio.
- [Deep Bite!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/deep-bite/) - Artist Jill Randall has been working in Wales over the last few years producing a body of work now on show at the National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. the exhibition entitled " Golden Venture " runs until the 18th of September, 2011. Its the culmination of her Artists Residency at Parys Mountain Copper Mine in
- [Towering success!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/towering-success/) - Members of the print classes at Prospect Studios have been selected to take part in the Festive Crafts Fair at the Grundy Art Gallery in Blackpool. For one day only on Saturday the 19th of November, members will present their work for sale at the gallery . work will include cards, collographs, etchings and relief
- [Pupils Print!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pupils-print/) - Pupils from St Anselms and in Whitworth, Rossendale, spent days working with artist Alan Birch. Pupils worked on a variety of natural themes to produce some excellent drawings and prints. 2 days were spent working with pupils from Year 2-6 on a range of print techniques. Considering this was their first taste of print, the
- [Animal Influences!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/animal-influences/) - Year 1 and reception pupils from Puss Bank Primary School in Macclesfield, explored the natural world through printmaking. Pupils spent time drawing and printing, producing a wondrous collection of plants, insects, animals , fish and birds. These relief prints, printed at school with water based inks were later assembled and reprinted at Prospect Studio. These
- [](https://alanbirch.co.uk/781/) - Families living in central Rochdale were invited to spend a day working with artist Alan Birch at Touchstones in Rochdale . Families of all ages spent an enjoyable and creative day, producing prints based on landscape works in the gallery. The sessions were supported and organised by Link4Life.
- [Viva Mexico!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/viva-mexico-2/) - Pupils from Witton Park High School, Blackburn spent a day looking at the Mexican Festival of Day of The Dead. Artist Alan Birch who recently spent time in Mexico for the Festival, gave a visual presentation to Year 9 pupils, who then produced drypoints and relief prints on the them. On a print packed day
- [Congratulations!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/congratulations/) - Well done to printmakers Jo Beggs, Jacqui Fortnum, Kay Macintosh, Pete Marsh and David Norris who have had works selected for the Stockport Open Contemporary Art Exhibition. The exhibition which is held at Stockport Art Gallery from 25th June to 14 August attracted over 750 entries. If you are interested in printmaking, and are in
- [War Histories.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/war-histories/) - Year 10 students from Carr HillHigh School and Sixth Form Centre in Kirkham, listened to the harrowing tales of a survivor from Auschwitz. In response to this experience pupils produced a series of small drypoint prints which illustrated the events, and looked at the work of German artists of the period. The two day workshops
- [Printed Portraits](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printed-portraits/) - Printed Portraits Students from Salford City College spent a morning with printmaker Alan Birch, looking at artists portraits in print and producing a series of works investigating facial features. The workshop organised by the Education Department at the Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester, linked into the current exhibition Family Allowance. " The workshop was excellent, the
- [Men at Work](https://alanbirch.co.uk/men-at-work/) - Just to show that men are just as creative as their female counterparts, here is a recent studio shot of a June printing session where men made up the majority of participants. Regular artists Chris Waites, David Norris and Pete Marsh were joined by beginner Chris Dando. So if any budding Picassos, Rembrandts or Hockneys
- [North West Prints!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/north-west-prints/) - Artists new to print, explored the techniques of drypoint and collograph at the Turnpike in Leigh. Working from their sketchbooks and a range of chosen images, the artists created a colourful world of printed images. Here is a selection of some comments:- Kept going. Variety of projects. Ensured everyone (in a big group) got attention.
- [Gallery Print Days](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gallery-print-days/) - Alan Birch will be running 2 print days at galleries in the North West during June and July. The first is specifically for adults on June 18th will be at the Turnpike in Leigh where artists will be given a brief taster into the techniques and creative possibilities of collograph, intaglio and monoprint. On July
- [Monstrous!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/monstrous/) - Over a period of 10 days in February, pupils and public were introduced to the possibilities of printmaking as printmaker Alan Birch staged a residency at John Rylands Library. Key stage 2 pupils from a host of schools in Manchester and Salford were inspired by creatures found in illustrations in books from the Rylands collection,
- [Todmorden prints!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/todmorden-prints/) - During March and April, printmaker Alan Birch spent 8 days working with in all the primary schools in Todmorden. Over 400 pupils Key Stage 2 pupils produced relief and engraved prints based on a range of themes from Easter and Spring to fish, rivers and sea to the creative work of Kandinsky, Matisse and Van
- [Collograph Days.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/collograph-days/) - During the summer, Alan Birch will be offering collograph weekends at the request of existing class members. The classes are open to interested parties and will explore the creative potential of collograph and the mark making potential of the technique. Participants will create collograph plates on the first day of the weekend course and spend the
- [Print Fest 2011.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/print-fest-2011/) - Print class members Pete Marsh and Lynn Kirkley, will be showing and selling their work at Print Fest 2011, at Ulverston this weekend Saturday and Sunday ( 30th April and 1st May ) if anyone is in the area please pop in and say hello. A range of printmakers will be selling work and it
- [Charity Work.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/charity-work/) - Touched by the Tsunami disaster in Japan, Year 3 and 4 pupils from St John’s Primary School in Heaton Mersey, decided to investigate Japan and its geography as part of their Learners Voice project, for Creative Partnerships Manchester and Salford. Pupils used various print media to explore a range of curriculum areas. Framed prints, Japanese
- [Learners Voice.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/learners-voice/) - All pupils from Didsbury Primary School in Heaton Mersey were inspired by the story of Around the World in 80 Days to work with a range of creative practitioners to produce, music, theatre, writing and print. Objects collected from travels were used as starting points, from which pupils took inspiration. Years 3 to 6 produced
- [Viking spell!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/viking-spell/) - Year 4 pupils from Red Lane Primary School in Bolton investigated the world of Viking pattern just before their Easter break. Images from textiles, jewellery , stone carving and decoration were used to illustrate all the letters of the alphabet . These drawings were transformed into engravings and printed, later to be used in literacy
- [Panoptican Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/panoptican-prints/) - Pupils from Broadfield Specialist School, spent a busy day at Howarth Art Gallery producing a varied body of print work based on their photographs of the Panopticans. The collographs, engravings and relief prints will help to enhance their GCSE coursework. “ The kids are in the middle of doing their exam, we have used your
- [Portrait Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/portrait-prints/) - Pupils from Claremont Primary School in Manchester, enjoyed two days of printing in early January. Key stage 2 pupils worked in pairs, drawing their friends which were transformed into painterly relief prints, using polyprint and water based printing inks. Pupils enjoyed drawing , inking and printing their masterpieces. “ Thanks very much for the print workshops
- [Printed History!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/printed-history/) - Students from Melland High School in Levenshulme, Manchester illustrated the history of Levenshulme and Longsight through the media of print. The hardworking studentsexperimented with a host of print techniques ranging from drypoint, monoprint, relief and surface printing, producing vast amounts of high quality work. These printed pieces told the story of the Saxons and Vikings,
- [Horror Humour](https://alanbirch.co.uk/horror-humour/) - Alan Birch is currently busy working on a new body of work inspired by characters from Horror Films. The series of monoprints currently standing at 50, finds horror figures in unfamiliar situations and environments. Seeing the figures out of their comfort zone, forces the spectator to review their preconceived views, and makes them ask "
- [Four Days Only!.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/christmas-market/) - What better way to celebrate Christmas than to visit Prospect Studios print stall in Exchange Square, by the Triangle in Manchester City Centre. Pop along for a chat,buy a limited edition print for yourself or a friend , or just sample the atmosphere! Artists are there for one weekend only, Thursday 9th December until Sunday
- [Museum Works](https://alanbirch.co.uk/animal-instincts/) - Year 11 pupils from St Gabriel's RC High School in Bury spent a creative day at the Museum and Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester. Pupils drew from the animal collection and later turned these drawings into intaglio prints at the Whitworth. Working with printmaker Alan Birch pupils mirrored the the Art Nouveau style in their
- [Gift Ideas](https://alanbirch.co.uk/gift-ideas/) - Short of a quirky, humorous gift for Christmas. The recently published book of prints by Alan Birch is the perfect present. The book features World Cup monoprints, Dancing with the Devil etchings amongst others. To see further information and pictures visit: To order: View my book at Blurb: http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/invited/1097271/7832c05e7dd282ac540c66e50290b561
- [Viva Mexico!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/viva-mexico/) - In October Alan Birch visited Mexico to witness preparations and festivities associated with the festival "Day of The Dead". Meeting up with printmakers and craft artists in Mexico city and Oaxaca, a valuable insight was gained into their skills and practice. Alan is planning a series of craft and print workshops based on the theme,
- [Prints galore!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prints-galore/) - Alan Birch has just completed a mammoth printing session with the entire population of Gatley Primary School. Over 7 days, nearly 5000 prints were produced by all year groups. These prints will be made into Christmas Cards and sold by the school.
- [Book works.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/prints-at-the-library/) - In 2011, Alan Birch will be running a series of workshops at John Rylands Library, in Manchester. The Library on Deansgate is home to a large collection of books and printed works throughout history. Alan will be based in the Library for an eight day period, giving participants and visitors an insight into his work,
- [Day of the Dead.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/day-of-the-dead/) - During November Alan Birch will be visiting Mexico to experience the Day of the Dead Festival. The Festival falling on All Saints Day is an uplifting and celebratory festival for families to remember past relatives and friends . On his return from the festivities at Oaxaca, he will use the experience to inspire a series
- [Arts and Health.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/arts-and-health/) - Over the past six months, Alan Birch has been working with three other artists and poets to create work to adorn the walls of Galaxy House at Manchester Childrens Hospital. Textile artist Vicky Wheeler, mural artist Lucy Burscough, screen printer Esther Freeman and poet Chanje Cunda together with Alan produced work, inspired by the collection
- [Sci-Fi Exhibition](https://alanbirch.co.uk/sci-fi-exhibition/) - During October Alan Birch will be showing several pieces of work as part of an exhibition at West Yorkshire Print Workshop in Mirfield. The exhibition with a Sci-Fi theme runs until 21st October and the work of all the artists should be "Out of the World!" 1. SCI-FI EXHIBITION AND TALK @ WYPW Sci-Fi @
- [JUST PUBLISHED!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/just-published/) - A new book featuring recent prints by Alan Birch is due to run off the presses by end of September. The publication will focus on the series of monoprints Animals in Unfamiliar Situations and offer a refreshingly homorous slant on the World Cup 2010. Also included are prints on the theme of "Dancing with Devil".The
- [SHOPPING SKILLS](https://alanbirch.co.uk/shopping-skills/) - Members of the Rochdale Congolese community spent a day at Touchstones, printing colourful shopping bags. Participants brought in vegetables and fruits on which to base their designs. From initial drawings large lino cuts were carved and then printed on personalised cotton bags. Watch out for glimpses of these colourful creations the next time you are
- [WAR IMAGES](https://alanbirch.co.uk/working-with-war/) - Pupils from Stockport and Manchester visited the Manchester Art Gallery to view and be inspired by the work of Francisco de Goya. Artist and printmaker Alan Birch presented his own work inspired by Goya. Pupils were then given an opportunity to get their hands dirty and produce expressive drypoint prints using conflict as a starting
- [AFRICAN PRINTS](https://alanbirch.co.uk/world-cup-influence/) - During June, Prospect Studios opened their doors to visitors as part of the Reveal Open Studio Event in Rossendale Valley. Over 35o people visited the studios and children were encouraged to produce their own monoprints on the theme of World Cup animals. Over 50 prints were produced during the weekend, and humour was the order
- [NEW ACQUISITION](https://alanbirch.co.uk/recent-acquisition/) - Touchstones have recently purchased the piece "Moby Dick" for their permanent collection. The 2.5 metre piece fabricated from laser cut steel, comprises of symbols of fear, taken from media stories over the last 5 years. The piece, the offspring of the larger 8metre piece which featured in the exhibition "Fearless " at Touchstones in 2004,
- [](https://alanbirch.co.uk/490/) - Chinese food provided the initial impetus for year 2 and 3 pupils at Bolshaw Primary School. Pupils were treated to a week of food, music and print with a Chinese flavour as musician Eve Harrison and artist Alan Birch worked on a Creative Partnership project. Year 2 and 3 pupils made visual responses to the
- [Primary Prints 2010.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/primary-prints-2010/) - Primary schools from the North west and beyond have been experimenting with print at the Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester during 2010. Working with artist and printmaker Alan Birch,pupils have produced drypoints and relief prints at the gallery inspired by the permanent collections and the Talking Walls exhibition. Pupils have been amazed to see their
- [Viva Espana!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/viva-espana/) - Pupils at Outwood Primary School, were treated to a week of food, music and print with a Spanish flavour as musician Eve Harrison and artist Alan Birchworked on a Creative Partnership project. Year 4 and 5 pupils made marks in response to the flavours of a Spanish meal. They then decided they wanted to work
- [Talking Walls](https://alanbirch.co.uk/talking-walls/) - Year 10 pupils from Holy Family College, Heywood explored the world of contemporary wallpaper at the Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester. Pupils took inspiration from the wallpaper to produce drawings which were then turned into drypoint prints, incorporating collage of buildings.
- [TAKING ROOT!](https://alanbirch.co.uk/taking-root/) - Pupils at Blackrow Brow Primary School in Huyton were given a unique insight into how artists transform public spaces . Jill Randall and Alan Birch worked with Year 4 pupils, constructing tree sculptures using wire and producing prints on the theme of natural form. Over the next few weeks these works will be used to
- [Who Cares?](https://alanbirch.co.uk/who-cares/) - During 2010, Alan Birch has been working alongside 3 artists in Galaxy House, Manchester Childrens Hospital. The programme, organised by the Whitworth Art Gallery has involved artists, musicians and poets working with children to enhance their learning experience. Work has been produced to enhance the hospital environment, including murals and framed artworks. For further information
- [Panel beaters](https://alanbirch.co.uk/panel-beaters/) - Since September 2009, artist Alan Birch working on behalf of Artists in Schools. Bolton, has been working with four primary schools in the Tonge Moor district of Bolton. Over a series of 12 workshops, pupils from Bolton Parish , Tonge Moor, Moorgate and Castle Hill Primary Schools, produced a series of prints using the theme
- [FABRIC PRINTS](https://alanbirch.co.uk/fabric-prints/) - WEA Students from Blackburn and Rochdale were given a curatorial tour of the Textile Collection on display at the Whitworth Art Gallery, The Indian embroideries and printed textiles formed part of a collection byThomas Wardle entitled The Manchester Indian . Studies of the patterns and shapes found in the collection were used to create colourful
- [GOYA MASTER CLASS](https://alanbirch.co.uk/goya-master-class/) - GOYA MASTER CLASS Teachers from Stockport and Manchester visited the Manchester Art Gallery to view and be inspired by the work of Francico de Goya. Artist Katy McCall give them an introduction to the Visual Dialogues project and printmaker Alan Birch presented his own work inspired by Goya. Teachers were then given an opportunity to
- [THE TALENT FACTOR](https://alanbirch.co.uk/the-talent-factor/) - A group of gifted and talented pupils ( aged 7-11 ) from across the North West of England attended ‘The Talent Factor’ at Altrincham Grammar School for Girls. The event, organised by North West Gifted and Talented, offered pupils the chance to experience a variety of creative talent workshops. A group of 15 skilled artists,
- [Print stint](https://alanbirch.co.uk/print-stint/) - During September and October, artist Alan Birch has been working on the " Who Cares " project with the Leo Kelly Centre in Manchester. Pupils have experimented with collographs, intaglio printing and drypoint. The project organised through the Whitworth Art Gallery, gives pupils the opportunity to work with poets, musicians, artists and filmmakers and will
- [Festive Prints ](https://alanbirch.co.uk/festive-prints/) - From Thursday the 19th - Sunday 21st November, artists from Printmakers Inc. will be selling their work at Exchange Square in Manchester. The 15 artists who produce their prints at Prospect Studio in the Rossendale Valley, will be showing a range of printmaking techniques and subjects.Pop along to view their work, have a chat about
- [PROMOTION](https://alanbirch.co.uk/print-promotion/) - Printmaker Alan Birch and children From St John Cliviger Primary Schoolhelped to inspire Burnley Football Club prior to their winning Wembley appearance. Pupils clad in Burnley colours worked with Alan in their school on the last day of term and produced some wonderful prints. The workshops at school and at MId Pennine Arts, Burnley
- [Print Festival.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/start-2009-print-fest/) - In conjunction with the Start 2009 exhibition at Mid Pennine Art, Burnley, printmaker Alan Birch will be working with over 600 pupils in the gallery and in 4 schools in East Lancashire. Alan will be introducing pupils to the magic of printmaking and the pupils will be making relief prints inspired by the colours of
- [Past and Present.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/art-in-the-market/) - Alan Birch worked with pupils from St Brendans RC Primary School in Bolton to create four digital images currently displayed in the new Market Hall, Bolton.The four images looked into the history and future of the Market Hall and poupils used their imagination to depict themselves shopping in the venue in 1908 and 2108. The
- [Smithy visit.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pupils-in-the-smithy/) - Pupils from St Ambrose RC Secondary School visit Luke Listers Blacksmiths in Stockport to see the fabrication of a tree inspired by their ideas. Using wire maquettes and printed images made during visits to Prospect Studios, Waterfoot., designs were drawn up with the pupils and Alan Birch and then passed onto the fabricator to construct.
- [American Prints at the Whitworth.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/hitworth-workshops/) - The American Scene. Prints from Hopper to Pollock. A British Museum touring exhibition of prints, featuring some of the most exciting, original and defining images of modern American life from the Jazz Age, through the Depression and onward to America's entry into the Second World War. The exhibition runs from 19th September-13th December 2009. Alan
- [Printed memories.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/pupils-print-their-memories/) - Alan Birch worked with all pupils and staff from Bishop Bilsborrow R.C. Primary School to create two original books packed full of their memories of their time spent at school. The pupils from the school, due to close in July, will attend a new school on the site of Maine Road Football ground. The children
- [Deep roots.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/tree-takes-root/) - July saw the arrival of a memorial tree at St Ambrose R. C. Secondary School in Salford. The tree based on maquettes, models and prints completed by pupils at Prospect Studio, was designed by Alan Birch in memory of their classmate Olivia. The tree standing over 2 metres in height was adorned with objects and
- [MILL FARM ](https://alanbirch.co.uk/mill-farm/) - A new piece of public art was installed in July 2009 at Mill Farm Adventure Play Centre in Kirkby, Liverpool. The sculpture commissioned by Knowsley Arts and Heritage Service supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, resulted from a series of workshop with girls from the centre. The workshops, using the theme of local history explored
- [REVEAL](https://alanbirch.co.uk/hello-world/) - A Weekend of Open Studios in the Rossendale Valley On the weekend of 6th and 7th June 2009, the studios of Rossendale Valley will open to the public from 10.00 am -4.00pm. Alan Birch will preview his new work " Dancing with the Devil " and will show alongside artists Liam Spencer and Jill Randall

## Pages

- [Home](https://alanbirch.co.uk/) - Alan Birch provides School Workshops in Printing, a regular Adult Print Workshop and is an exhibiting artist of over 20 years experience
- [Winter Workshops](https://alanbirch.co.uk/winter-workshops/) - New workshops for 2026 Winter 2025 dates Turn your work into prints at Prospect Studio in Waterfoot., Rossendale. Alan Birch has been running printmaking classes in his studio for over 30 years. In that period over 250 people have produced etchings, relief prints, drypoint and collographs. The small friendly classes , limited to a maximum
- [Reviews](https://alanbirch.co.uk/reviews/) - https://www.a-n.co.uk/resource/alan-birch-fearless/
- [Studio Workshops](https://alanbirch.co.uk/new-workshops-for-2025/)
- [Studio Workshops](https://alanbirch.co.uk/workshops/studio-workshops/) - You can't edit this page directly. Please use "add new" under posts and select Category as Workshop
- [Contact](https://alanbirch.co.uk/contact/) - Alan can be contacted by Phone: 07757 186327 Email: alan@alanbirch.co.uk
- [George House Trust](https://alanbirch.co.uk/george-house-trust/) - The George House Trust arranged a printing workshop at The Whitworth, working with Alan. the group looked at the Jigsaw woodcuts of Edward Munch on show in the galleries. Members produced 4 colour jigsaw relief prints, using thin lino . Some excellent prints were produced and for some it was their first attempt at printing.
- [Testimonials](https://alanbirch.co.uk/workshops/testimonials/) - Newsletter from Blessed Thomas Holford College, Altrincham, following visit to school www.bthcc.org.uk/wp-content/.../BTH-Summer-Newsletter-2013v2.pdf? Published on the campaign for drawing website is a case study I wrote after your last visit working with year 7, Thought you might like to take a look. Daniel Firth Head of Art. St James Sports School, Bolton. http://www.campaignfordrawing.net/special-projects/drawing-and-printing Hi Alan, I'd
- [](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/disasters/)
- [monsters in lockdown](https://alanbirch.co.uk/monsters-in-lockdown/)
- [Micscellaneous prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/micscellaneous-prints/) - A selection of etchings and drypoints completed over the last 3 years. This selection ranges from Landscape prints to surreal atmospheric drypoints. A selection of prints from the past 3 years including etchings, drypoints and lino cuts. Brimham Rocks. Delivering gas masks to Badgers. Catstronaut.Dancing with the Devil. Monkey listening to bad music. Last goal
- [Multiples](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/fabricated-pieces/)
- [Ned Kelly](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/ned-kelly/) - This series of comedic drypoints, linocuts and etchings were created following a research trip to Australia. Having seen Ned Kelly's armour and death mask in Melbourne Library , I decided to read about his life. The juxtaposition of his murders, cult like stars among the poor and his eventual execution, fed my imagination. The prints
- [The adventures of Sir Gawain](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/6300-2/) - These hand coloured lino cuts are inspired by the intrepid adventures of Gawain , King Arthur's nephew and Knight of the Round Table. Having seen a series of Medieval woodcuts in the Victoria & Albert print collection, i imagined him, continuing his travails today. In this series he is transported to the present era, rescuing
- [Work.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/)
- [Covid Saints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/covid-saints/) - Covid-19 Saints In response to the outbreak of the Coronavirus, I have resurrected the series of Later-Day Saints to document new behaviour patterns and the onset of the " new normal" . The hand coloured drypoints published in a limited edition of 5 , commence with the early hoarding of basic consumables and culminate in
- [Workshops](https://alanbirch.co.uk/workshops/) - ALAN BIRCH Alan Birch is a printmaker with over 15 years experience working in schools, galleries and creative organisations. He is the print specialist at the Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester. He is based at Prospect Studios in Waterfoot where he runs regular printmaking workshops. In 2007 the studio won the Creative Space Award East
- [The Kraken Wakes](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/the-kraken-wakes/) - This series of drypoints and etchings were inspired by the John Wyndham novel " The Kraken Wakes " . In the series the mighty Kraken is glimpsed as he prepares to face the day ahead. He is seen reaching for his many slippers, fumbling for his Y-Fronts , getting in the shower and other mundane
- [Exquisite Corpse Video Clip](https://alanbirch.co.uk/exquisite-corpse-video-clip/) - Printmaker Alan Birch explains how to create your own imaginative characters based on the Surrealist idea " The Exquisite Corpse " This 15 minute video rakes you through the collage technique to drawing and mono print.
- [Saint Coronus as saviour.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/saint-coronus-as-saviour/) - With the world under lockdown and facing an uncertain future, I have been requested to resurrect the Later-Day Saint series to reflect current issues. Saint Coronus has materialised in print and gives us hope whilst illustrating through symbols, the concerns and priorities of society. Never before have toilet rolls, pasta, Dolmio, and hand sanitiser occupied
- [Workshop Quotes.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/workshops/quotes/) - Alan hosted a print workshop for us last year, whilst marking our current GCSE work we were astounded at how many marks the print workshop had helped the pupils to gain. This year Alan worked with our year 10 cohort creating etchings for their component one , we would highly recommend Alans workshops to any
- [About](https://alanbirch.co.uk/about/) - Alan Birch is an artist working out of Prospect Studios in Waterfoot, Lancashire . He works predominantly in print, but has worked with a variety of other media including drawing, metal and digital images. His work is imbued with his own unique sense of humour, offering a personal view on the contemporary world. Recent work
- [Curriculum Vitae](https://alanbirch.co.uk/workshops/curriculum-vitae/) - TEACHING EXPERIENCE 1996-2012: WHITWORTH ART GALLERY, MANCHESTER. Freelance workshop leader. 2004-:2012: PROSPECT STUDIOS, Printmaking workshops. 2005: TODMORDEN COLLEGE, Yorkshire. Printmaking Tutor on BA, HND and Access Courses 2000-2001: STOCKPORT COLLEGE. Part-time tutor . Printmaking on Degree Course and A and AS Level Art and Design. 1998-2000: MANCHESTER ADULT EDUCATION SERVICE. Part-time GCSE
- [Prints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/prints/) - Over the past twenty years Alan Birch has produced a vast body of work. The majority of the work consists of etchings and aquatints, but since completing the MA at Bradford in 2001 he has experimented with carborundum, drypoint and lithography. Humour underpins his work and a selection of his prints are featured.
- [Horror Humour](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/horror-humour/) - Alan Birch is currently busy working on a new body of work inspired by characters from Horror Films. The series of monoprints currently standing at 50, finds horror figures in unfamiliar situations and environments. Seeing the figures out of their comfort zone, forces the spectator to review their preconceived views, and makes them ask "
- [Drawings](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/drawings/) - Drawing underpins the practice of Alan Birch, whether as stand alone pieces or as studies for prints. He usually works on a theme and produces series of drawings, usually in acrylic and pencil. A catalogue of the drawings of Alan Birch: Modern Myths & Martyrs was published in 2001. ( ISBN 0-9541333-0-7 ) The catalogue
- [Shop Later-Day Saints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/shop-later-day-saints/) - LATER -DAY SAINTS MERCHANDISE To coincide with the exhibition of Later- day Saints at Leeds Medieval Congress. A series of postcards has been published of selected saints, together with an enamel pilgrim badge of St Selfie, and a 24 page magazine Later-day Saints, created by David Bennett. All these goods are available for
- [Personal Saints](https://alanbirch.co.uk/later-day-saints-the-john-rylands-library/personal-saints/) - As part of the exhibition of Later-day Saints, visitors were asked to submit their own personal saints. A selection of those submitted are shown below: Saint Impecunious by Alison Dempster ( Huddersfield )
- [Later-day Saints .](https://alanbirch.co.uk/later-day-saints-the-john-rylands-library/) - Over the the last three years I have been working on a series of prints, initially monoprints, which take their starting point from the collection of saintly wood carvings in the Wellcome Collection at The Science Museum in London . The depiction of saints is a subject I have been long fascinated with, whether in
- [Exhibitions](https://alanbirch.co.uk/exhibitions/) - ALAN BIRCH Work is held in various collections including The Whitworth, Manchester, The Grundy Art Gallery, Blackpool and Touchstones, Rochdale. Work is held in collections in the United Kingdom, Holland, Begium, France, U.S and Australia. SELECTED EXHIBITIONS FORTHCOMING EVENT July 2016: Later Day Saints. International Medieval Congress, Leeds University. SOLO EXHIBITIONS 2015: Later-Day Saints. The
- [Culture shots. Saints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/culture-shots-saints/) - https://vimeo.com/169691373 As part of Culture Shots( part of the Health and Wellbeing programme at the Whitworth )held during June and July 2016, Alan Birch was resident in Manchester and Trafford Hospitals. A fantastic printmaking competition was held and winners work was framed and is permanently displayed in Trafford Hospital. Take a look at the link
- [Saints headline at Leeds.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/later-day-saints-the-john-rylands-library/saints-headline-at-leeds/) - Alan Birch exhibited over 40 of his drypoints and his etchings of Later-Day Saints at the International Medieval Congress in Leeds in July 2016. He also took part in the Medieval Craft Fair , selling saint related merchandise. Over 3000 Medievalists were present and the special thematic strand for 2016 was Food, Feast & Famine.
- [Later  day Saints. Monoprints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/contemporary-saints/) - I am currently working on a new body of work , exploring the subject of Saints and Martyrs. The starting point for the series was hearing that Roberto Mancini had been to church on the final day of the season, which seemed to have been successful. The first monoprint was Saint Last Minute, followed by a
- [Animals in unfamiliar situations.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/animals-in-unfamiliar-situations/) - An Anaconda ponders a pair of gloves, a Tasmanian Devil rages on being dealt a bad hand of cards and a Common Shore Crab donning boxing gloves spoils for a fight. All bizzarely surreal, animals finding themselves in unfamiliar situation: A celebration of the nonsensical.
- [World Cup Monoprints 2010](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/world-cup-monoprints-2010/) - June 2010, the country is caught up in all the usual footie inspired hype.A series of prints, featuring animals in a football environment.Whether it be confused chameleons, not sure who to support or a giraffe waiting for the long ball, they are all caught up in the magic of the moment.
- [Etchings 2010](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/etchings-2010/)
- [Monster Paintings](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/monster-paintings/) - Having explored the world of iconic figures from horror films, I decided it was about time the paints painted for over 20 years it was a move away from the process of printmaking. Let me know what you think.
- [Power and Puppets](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/power-and-puppets/) - linked Well known puppet characters from the 60's and 70's have dismissed their well known accomplices and linked up with powerful and iconic figures , historical and religious. The juxtapositioning of these diverse characters, fictional and real questions the notions of power and image. By hand colouring these drypoint prints I am attempting to take
- [Secondary Schools ](https://alanbirch.co.uk/workshops/seconday-schools/) - For the past fifteen years, Alan Birch has introduced students and pupils alike to the creative potential of print. He has worked in schools around the north west of England and regularly runs workshops in a variety of print media at the Whitworth Art Gallery, Touchstones, Blackpool Art Gallery and Mid Pennine, Burnley. Article by
- [History](https://alanbirch.co.uk/workshops/themes-and-starting-points-for-printing/history/) - History offers up rich staring points for printmaking and a range of techniques can be employed. Printing often featured as a tool in many historical movements, helping to pass information through printed text and provoke discussion through image. Several projects have used history as a starting point whether that be as a straight forward illustration,
- [Recycling and Printing from Found Objects.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/workshops/themes-and-starting-points-for-printing/techniques-and-themes-in-schools/) - Below are selected examples from projects using recycled and found objects brought into class by both artists and participants. These objects dependent on size and material can be surface printed with water based inks and assembled to make large scale displays. “CHILDRENS CITY “. Project with Creative Partnerships Salford & Manchester, The Lowry and
- [Themes and Topics for Printing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/workshops/themes-and-starting-points-for-printing/) - Printmaking can be use to investigate and explore a range of curriculum areas, usually teachers wish to discuss the best techniques to employ in order to enhance a curriculum topic. Equally printmaking has featured as an activity for schools arts week activities with two classes being catered for creatively in a day.
- [Printmaking Primary Schools](https://alanbirch.co.uk/workshops/printmaking-primary-schools-2/) - Primary School printing workshopsand art workshops for Key Stage 1, Key Stage 2, Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4, across the North West of England
- [Dancing with the Devil](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/dancing-with-the-devil/) - This body of work currently ongoing was made in response to the public's fascination with dancing, whether on stage, on ice but always featuring celebrities. Imagine a late night, alcohol fuelled and a case of bad dad dancing with a character from some medieval painting.
- [Photographic Pieces.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/photographic-pieces/) - The ability to create a montaged world using computer applications has interested Alan Birch since his exhibition " Fearless " at Touchstones in 2002. This series " New Roles for Old Toys " looks at some old childhood favourites and places them in a questionable modern context.
- [Drawings From a Crashed UFO.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/drawings-from-a-crashed-ufo/) - A selection of over 50 drawings, recovered from a crashed UFO in the Rossendale Valley. The portfolio was taken from the craft, prior to its complete destruction in Lee Mill Quarry, Bacup.
- [Strange Ways to Meet Death](https://alanbirch.co.uk/work/strange-ways-to-meet-death/) - This series of 40 etchings, deals with the taboo subject of death. Inspired by a tale told by a pub customer when working behind a bar, the bulk of the stories are based on true stories from the press. Whether the untimely end has been caused by a hot water bottle , a turnip or

## Categories

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## Picture tag

- [Sketch of motorised wheelchair aand baby in pram.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/sketch-of-motorised-wheelchair-aand-baby-in-pram/)
- [Sketches of wind farm.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/sketches-of-wind-farm/)
- [Burned sketch of passenger airline](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/burned-sketch-of-passenger-airline/)
- [Damaged sketches of pub interior](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/damaged-sketches-of-pub-interior/)
- [Damaged sketch of stretch limo in Bacup.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/damaged-sketch-of-stretch-limo-in-bacup/)
- [Sketches of unattended fishing equipment](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/sketches-of-unattended-fishing-equipment/)
- [River Irwell.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/river-irwell/)
- [Close up sketch of cigarettes.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/close-up-sketch-of-cigarettes/)
- [Sketches of dogs out in their coats.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/sketches-of-dogs-out-in-their-coats/)
- [Digital print in response to the Iraqi conflict.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/digital-print-in-response-to-the-iraqi-conflict/)
- [A piece lamenting the state of the national railway system in the late 1990's](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/a-piece-lamenting-the-state-of-the-national-railway-system-in-the-late-1990s/)
- [The porcine duo are affected by Foot and Mouth disease.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/the-porcine-duo-are-affected-by-foot-and-mouth-disease/)
- [The usually reliable workmn is now Bob the Cowboy Builder.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/the-usually-reliable-workmn-is-now-bob-the-cowboy-builder/)
- [A life size cow](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/a-life-size-cow/)
- [illustrating the beef cuts from Mrs Beetons cookbook. each joint is an image from the media coverage of Foot and Mouth disease.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/illustrating-the-beef-cuts-from-mrs-beetons-cookbook-each-joint-is-an-image-from-the-media-coverage-of-foot-and-mouth-disease/)
- [A 24 foot whale depicting over 50 symbols of fear portrayed by the media. Like the mythical figure of Moby dick do they all exist?](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/a-24-foot-whale-depicting-over-50-symbols-of-fear-portrayed-by-the-media-like-the-mythical-figure-of-moby-dick-do-they-all-exist/)
- [A piece inspired by the media obsession with football and family.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/a-piece-inspired-by-the-media-obsession-with-football-and-family/)
- [The English pub sign](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/the-english-pub-sign/)
- [linked strongly to the agrictural past is transformed into a harbinger of impending doom.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/linked-strongly-to-the-agrictural-past-is-transformed-into-a-harbinger-of-impending-doom/)
- [The legends of the night sky and now transformed into contemporary images. Beckhams Hair and The Twin Towers amongst others.  is transformed](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/the-legends-of-the-night-sky-and-now-transformed-into-contemporary-images-beckhams-hair-and-the-twin-towers-amongst-others-is-transformed/)
- [Positive media images of the Iraqi war are transformed into a set of place mats.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/positive-media-images-of-the-iraqi-war-are-transformed-into-a-set-of-place-mats/)
- [In response the the government safety booklet which basically told us to drink and store water. This leaflet warns of contemporary situations.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/in-response-the-the-government-safety-booklet-which-basically-told-us-to-drink-and-store-water-this-leaflet-warns-of-contemporary-situations/)
- [The power of the Symbol. Cantona's shirt.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/the-power-of-the-symbol-cantonas-shirt/)
- [Beckhams famous Mohican.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/beckhams-famous-mohican/)
- [Imagine him running down the wing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/imagine-him-running-down-the-wing/)
- [A print made in response to Mad Cow disease.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/a-print-made-in-response-to-mad-cow-disease/)
- [790mm x 540mm](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/790mm-x-540mm/)
- [250mm x 200mm.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/250mm-x-200mm/)
- [300mm x 200mm](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/300mm-x-200mm/)
- [From the Respect series](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/from-the-respect-series/)
- [A print made in response to the concern over Beckhams broken metatarsal.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/a-print-made-in-response-to-the-concern-over-beckhams-broken-metatarsal/)
- [Disasters of War.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/disasters-of-war/)
- [Modern Myths.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/modern-myths/)
- [Martyrdom drawings.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/martyrdom-drawings/)
- [George Marsh drawing.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/george-marsh-drawing/)
- [Planet football.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/planet-football/)
- [Detail from safety leaflet.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/detail-from-safety-leaflet/)
- [Mans best friend.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/mans-best-friend/)
- [World Cup monoprints.
Alan Birch.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/world-cup-monoprints-alan-birch/)
- [Alan Birch.
Prints.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alan-birch-prints/)
- [Alan Birch.
2010](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alan-birch-2010/)
- [#printing for schools #printing workshops. #art workshops.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/printing-for-schools-printing-workshops-art-workshops/)
- [#alanbirch #printworkshop #artclasses](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-printworkshop-artclasses/)
- [#alanbirch #printworkshops #printmaking #art classes](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-printworkshops-printmaking-art-classes/)
- [#alanbirch #linocut #nedkelly #humour #printmaking](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-linocut-nedkelly-humour-printmaking/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour #alien #printmaking #prospectstudio #lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus #domesticbliss #vacuum](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-alien-printmaking-prospectstudio-lockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirus-domesticbliss-vacuum/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour #creature from black lagoon #printmaking #prospectstudio#lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-creature-from-black-lagoon-printmaking-prospectstudiolockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirus/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour #alien #printmaking #prospectstudio #lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus #home schooling #cybermen #doctorwho](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-alien-printmaking-prospectstudio-lockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirus-home-schooling-cybermen-doctorwho/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour #dracula #printmaking #prospectstudio #lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus #toiletroll.](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-dracula-printmaking-prospectstudio-lockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirus-toiletroll/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour #Godzilla#printmaking #prospectstudio #lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus #shopping](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-godzillaprintmaking-prospectstudio-lockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirus-shopping/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour #Hollow Man #printmaking #prospectstudio#lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus #badgers](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-hollow-man-printmaking-prospectstudiolockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirus-badgers/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour #Frankenstein#printmaking #prospectstudio # Hammerfilms #lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-frankensteinprintmaking-prospectstudio-hammerfilms-lockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirus/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour# King Kong #printmaking #prospectstudio#lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus#vaccination](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-king-kong-printmaking-prospectstudiolockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirusvaccination/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour #Kraken #printmaking #prospectstudio #lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus #playing cards # patience](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-kraken-printmaking-prospectstudio-lockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirus-playing-cards-patience/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour #Medusa #Coronavirus#prospectstudio #lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-medusa-coronavirusprospectstudio-lockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirus/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour #invisibleman #printmaking #prospectstudio#lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus #wellbeing #wildlife #springwatch](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-invisibleman-printmaking-prospectstudiolockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirus-wellbeing-wildlife-springwatch/)
- [#alanbirch #monsters #humour werewlolf #printmaking #prospectstudio #lockdown #lockdown humour #coronavirus #nature #wellbeing](https://alanbirch.co.uk/ngg_tag/alanbirch-monsters-humour-werewlolf-printmaking-prospectstudio-lockdown-lockdown-humour-coronavirus-nature-wellbeing/)