Masterclass in Mezzotint with Mychael Barratt
2 day course
4 & 5 September 2025
10am to 4pm
£250 for 2 days including 1 x Mezzotint plate
On this introductory course, you will be taught by Mychael Barratt, former President of the Royal Society of Painter Printmakers. Mychael is a master of many different techniques and his work is held in museums and collections worldwide including the British Museum and The British Library. Mezzotint differs from etching as the artist works from dark to light, rather than light to dark. The plate is ‘rocked’ to create a 'tooth' texture, and the image is created by scraping and burnishing to create lighter tones.
Working with a 14cm square plate, you will discuss different mark making techniques and how to achieve different tones with mezzotint. You will learn how to ink up the plate and print using an etching press. Mychael will also explain how multi-colour mezzotints can be developed, with some examples.
Course structure
• Explanation of the technique with examples of Mychael’s work.
• Introduction to equipment and scraper burnisher techniques.
• Planning an image and transferring the design.
• How to ink the plate.
• Printing the plate
Pre course information
Mezzotint is a drawing based medium so please bring a drawing of your choice (landscape, portrait, animal or abstract composition) that would fit a 14cm square plate. Any other preparation notes will be sent prior to the course date
Experience level
Suitable for beginners and those wishing to refresh their skills. This technique suits individuals who enjoy richly toned works with soft marks, as well as those interested in the work of Mychael Barratt.
Maximum 10 places
The above section may require scrolling
For all courses except CPSC Certificate course
Full payment of the course fee is required when booking a place. A reserved place is not secure until full payment has been received.
If for any reason you are unable to attend, we will refund monies paid minus a £20 admin fee, as long as you cancel your place more than 1 month before the course start date.
For CPSC Certificate course
Payment for Term 1 is required when booking a place. A reserved place is not secure until this payment has been received. Payments for Terms 2 & 3 will be due at the end of the previous term. Payments for Terms 2 & 3 will be due before the first day of each term.
If for any reason prior to the commencement of the course you are unable to attend, we will refund monies paid minus a £20.00 admin fee, as long as you cancel your place more than 1 month before the course start date. Once you start the course on Term 1 you have committed to all 3 terms. Course transfers are at the discretion of Curwen Print Study Centre.
There is an option to book your place for £100 deposit. If you choose this option your place is secured. The balance of term 1 will be due 20 working days before the start of the course. If you cancel more than 20 working days before the course start date, we will refund monies paid minus a £20 admin fee. If your place is not cancelled during this timescale, and the balance is not paid then the deposit is non refundable. All other Terms & Conditions remain the same.
Curwen Print Study Centre reserves the right to cancel courses – a full refund will be made in these circumstances.
