Developing Artists' Books

This course is for learners with some experience in printmaking, drawing, or mixed media who want to develop their own artistic ideas through the medium of the Artist’s Book.  

Through hands-on exploration, learners will experiment with printmaking and mixed media techniques to generate content, using a variety of materials and formats to expand their creative approach to bookmaking. The course will also consider how the artist’s book functions within contemporary art practice.

You will be taught in specialist art and design studios and supported by the course teacher through practical demonstrations, one-to-one tuition and group discussions. This course will feature field trips to locations in or around Edinburgh (your teacher will confirm the itinerary in class).

You will require access to a device with an internet connection.  

Learners are responsible for purchasing their own materials. You may be required to bring some materials to your first, and subsequent classes. Learn more about the materials required for this course here. Please do not purchase any materials until your course is confirmed to run.

Learning in this course is hands-on, and your skills will develop through practice, discovery, and engagement with materials and techniques.

If you have fully engaged with all the learning activities and have attended regularly, by the end of the course, you should be able to:  

• Develop and articulate a personal approach to the artist’s book, supported by research into historical and contemporary practices;
• Experiment confidently with printmaking and mixed media techniques to explore new ways of presenting visual ideas in book form;
• Ability to develop and communicate complex ideas through hands-on experimentation and mixed media, enhancing creative thinking, visual storytelling, and project development, skills applicable in design, publishing, education, and other creative industries. 

This course is designed for learners with some experience in printmaking, drawing, or mixed media.

Learners with an enthusiasm for creative exploration, who enjoy making things, or have a natural appreciation for colour, texture and form may find this course particularly rewarding.

We welcome all and are committed to fostering a positive culture and sense of community among learners and staff. We expect learners to treat others with dignity and respect. Learners must be 16+.

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, health condition, or personal circumstances which may affect your learning, please let us know so that we can make appropriate adjustments in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.  

Wherever possible, we mainstream adjustments in line with the University’s accessible and inclusive learning policy. 

Learners will have limited access to the University’s student support services who will signpost appropriate local sources of support. 

This course is designed for learners with some experience in printmaking, drawing, or mixed media. Learning is hands-on and a willingness to experiment and express ideas visually is encouraged.

Learners are responsible for purchasing their own materials. You may be required to bring some materials to your first, and subsequent classes. Learn more about the materials required for this course here. Please do not purchase any materials until your course is confirmed to run.  

There is no recommended reading with this course; however, your course teacher will guide you to relevant sources.

Reading, listening and communication skills are essential. You must be comfortable learning in English. You will need basic digital skills, such as using a computer and navigating a website, to access the learning materials.

Please note that the course booking deadline is 8 days before the course start date.