Pulling Prints at The Thomas Gainsborough School

Inspiring young artists through hands-on printmaking

On Tuesday afternoon this week, (24th March) a vibrant and engaging Pulling Prints workshop took place at Thomas Gainsborough School, delivered in collaboration with Gainsborough's House, Jilly Roberts, and artists connected to the Pulling Prints exhibition.

Designed for students in Years 7–11, the session welcomed a group of young participants and transformed the classroom into a lively printmaking studio.

A Fast-Paced Introduction to Mono-printing

The workshop focused on monoprint portraiture, offering students a structured yet highly experimental introduction to printmaking techniques. Over the course of just over an hour, students explored a wide range of creative approaches using professional materials supplied by the Gainsborough’s House team.

Beginning with a short demonstration, students were guided through a series of timed exercises designed to build confidence and encourage risk-taking.

Activities included:

• Drawing over portrait guides using continuous line techniques

• Experimenting with non-dominant hand mark-making

• Creating expressive textures using fingers and varied pressure

• Developing self-portraits using mirrors

• Working collaboratively to draw one another

• Exploring layered colour printing techniques

• Producing final freestyle prints on specialist Hahnemühle paper.

  
  

The carefully structured progression allowed students to quickly develop their skills, moving from guided exercises to more independent, expressive outcomes.

A Buzzing Classroom of Creativity

The energy in the room was unmistakable. From the outset, students engaged enthusiastically with the process, embracing both the challenges and the spontaneity of printmaking.

Following the workshop, Lead Practitioner of Art Lucy Nichol shared:

“The classroom was absolutely buzzing with energy, and it was wonderful to see how engaged and enthusiastic the students were throughout the mono-printing activities.I was genuinely amazed by how much high-quality work they produced in just an hour and fifteen minutes.”

The session was led by Flo Cameron, whose clear instruction and confident delivery enabled students to quickly grasp new techniques while maintaining a sense of creative freedom.

Students responded warmly to the entire team, including Solo Nichol, Lucy Perry, and Eleanor Mills, all of whom contributed to a supportive and encouraging environment.

Meaningful Impact and Future Collaboration

In just one session, students produced an impressive body of work that demonstrated creativity, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment—key qualities at the heart of artistic development.

The workshop formed part of a wider creative programme linked to the Pulling Prints exhibition, in partnership with Mill Tye Gallery and supported by Suffolk County Council.

Reflecting on the experience, Lucy Nichol noted the lasting value of the opportunity:

“The Pulling Prints workshop has made a meaningful impact on our students, broadening their experience of the visual arts and giving them the chance to learn directly from practising artists.”

Looking Ahead

This collaboration highlights the power of partnerships between schools, galleries, and practising artists in creating enriching, real-world learning experiences.

We are delighted to have worked with the Thomas Gainsborough School and look forward to developing further opportunities that continue to inspire and support the next generation of young creatives.

If you would like to meet the team and experience the work firsthand, the Pulling Prints exhibition is currently on display at Mill Tye Gallery until Easter Monday, 6th April. The artists will be available throughout the weekend and over the Bank Holiday, offering a wonderful opportunity to discuss their work, processes, and the ideas behind the exhibition.

We’d love to see you there!