AA2A   My AA2A brief has mainly been shelved as with lockdown came no access to resources, face-to-face contact and the community & networks I’d identified I wanted to explore. In its stead  I’ve put together a table top practice, and have steadily made small scale drawings, Lino cuts and wood engravings. I’ve been busy, I’ve occupied myself - though...  show more

What are my ethics of Observational Drawing?   I don’t have a definitive answer, but a sense of mental resistance when looking to transpose drawings to print.   This hesitancy is twofold: weariness of reducing experience to stock types & stereotypes. Cautiousness about exaggerating to a point of a symbolism that rapidly tires.   At the moment I am  fortunate...  show more

Blog   A important part of my AA2A scheme of work was to comparatively drop myself into the unknown. In this instance - an initial 1-2-1 training with Master Wood Engraver Chris Daunt across country in Gateshead. My thinking is to learn something of the most challenging relief process in order not necessarily becoming an Engraver - but to push...  show more

On the surface - I've mainly been a cleaner & tweaker - understanding the equipment, the place and were my place may be amidst this. Once remov'd I've pushed and edged my drawing practiced, used the ruse of new equipment/this scheme to leverage myself from excuses & depressions cycle. Next I need to justify this existence - make work, push push push.   show more

Ok, technician-follies. My AA2A so far has been about the toys (equipment). On the positive - this is scheduled part A - setup : getting to know the resource and putting in place the right stuff. On the negative - sourcing and tweaking equipment is an excuse/delay to making work. It’s easier to face the world focus’d on the equipment,...  show more

Things come together, people biscuits, chat and smiles.   I’m always fascinated by the clasp of starting. I call this the dentist waiting room moment. There’s a certain anticipation and apprehension. Following formalities - headed to the Stephenson Blake. Though the press is in good shape (serviced by AMR).. there’s modification a many. There is so much to learn -...  show more