Exploring Mono Printing and Mark Making: Art Club Continues at Thomas Gainsborough School

Our ongoing collaboration with artist Eleanor Mills and the Thomas Gainsborough School continues to inspire and delight. As part of Eleanor’s lead-up to her solo exhibition this September, students have been working closely with her through a series of Art Club sessions—each designed to explore new creative techniques while connecting with the Suffolk landscape. The latest workshop took place on April 29th and introduced students to the expressive process of mono printing using oil pastels.

Our fourth Art Club session took place on the 29th of April, where we explored mono printing using oil pastels. This technique involves tracing over an image to create a unique print—and for this session, our chosen subject was a vibrant rapeseed field in Suffolk. This very image will be featured in the final collaborative piece for my solo exhibition this September.

The session focused on mark making, encouraging students to think deeply about texture and line. I was especially interested in seeing how each student interpreted the image. They really pushed the boundaries with perspectives and line-work, transforming a simple composition into something dynamic and personal.

For the final two sessions, we’ll be shifting focus to a style of batik. Students will apply hot wax (safely using candlesticks as a resist) to fabric before dyeing, creating layered, textural designs as we continue to explore new creative methods together.

With each session, Eleanor’s creative journey with the students continues to evolve. This fourth workshop marked another exciting step towards An Appliqué Afternoon at Mill Tye Gallery. The energy and imagination on display promise something truly special in the final exhibition.

We’re looking ahead with great anticipation to An Appliqué Afternoon, opening this September. This exhibition will highlight how each workshop—like this one — has contributed to Eleanor’s developing body of work, while celebrating the vibrant creativity nurtured within our local community.

Click here to RSVP to the exhibition and learn more!