I have spent every Wednesday since October2008 trying to develop my printmaking skills in the excellent printmaking studio at Wolverhampton University. They have an excellent range of facilities in the department, and the technicians have been incredibly patient and helpful, particularly Tom who looks after the studio that houses the superb etching and relief presses.

I have found my time here incredibly useful in affording me the valuable time and access to resources that I would have difficulty accessing normally. Discussing my ideas with the technician, and being able to work with their guidance, and being around more experienced printmakers has really opened up my eyes to the possibilities in this area, and deepened my knowledge. I have attempted to immerse myself in the processes to experiment fairly broadly at first, before then developing some more refined prints. I’ve also used the excellent library a great deal to research art historical examples of printmaking. As time went on it seemed more and more important to complete my first professional edition ,which I finally did in March 2009 completely independently. It personally felt like a real achievement and something I would have had great difficulty in achieving at the start of my time on the AA2A scheme. At times, I felt I could have been used more as a ‘resource’ in the School of Art and Design, being more than willing and experienced to discuss my work with students and staff. I would have enjoyed the opportunity to contribute to studio critiques and tutorials in the Fine Art department, but this has not been forthcoming. Overall, however I have found it a great scheme and have felt that I have learned a lot, and view printmaking as a definite ‘arm’ of my Fine Art practice now. In fact, I am now currently seeking funding to develop a limited edition artists’ book of print. 

Shaun Morris, April 2009 

'Robert 'My First Edition''
etching and aquatint