I had wonderful opportunity to return to Framfield Allotments to run printmaking workshops. In my practice, I work in various disciplines including drawing, painting, printmaking but what I enjoy the most is to pass my knowledge to my students and share the learning process with them. The most exciting for me personally is the process of transferring images from a plate onto another surface – like paper or fabric. I try to make my workshops sustainable by recycling and upcycling materials and tools we use, and I demonstrate my unconventional practice, meaning I show how can printmaking be available in your own home setting, be it a kitchen corner, living room, garage or attic - you name it.
During my Master’s degree I have learnt to be independent from printmaking studios or workshop places simply because when I came in to University to print my degree pieces, the technician announced they are closing for 6 weeks due to Easter holidays (that’s what universities do) and I had a choice either create a plan B or turn on my “little stubborn girl character” and make it work no matter what. I rarely give up. It’s not in my nature. I’m designed to be a warrior. So, I went home, did my research and set up printmaking space in my living room. I invented my own methods and absolutely embraced the process. I absolutely loved what I did, how I did it, and of course I was very pleased with a result. Unfortunately, I had to take a very long break after I finished these pieces. I was pregnant at that time and suffered from terrible fatigue that didn’t resolve after giving birth. I burned out and developed RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis), chronic fatigue alongside many other symptoms. So, I had no choice but only focus on my baby and myself. I’ve locked my art and printmaking practice in a “drawer” until very recently I “opened it” again – one day I woke up and got back to it like nothing happened. Of course, I have done lots of work in meantime to fix my health and stand where I am here today. So, I was just so thrilled to have this opportunity to run printmaking workshops and share the minutia with these amazing people that came to my workshops. I literally felt like a Fenix rising up from ashes, lighting up the whole room to enlighten and empower. I feel supercharged when surrounded by creative, eager to learn, keen people and I reflect this energy back – this and my unconventional approach makes my workshops a unique experience.
Here’s what my students say about my workshops:
“Anastasija’s Mono Print Class was the perfect afternoon for me and my daughter. Under her care and direction, we were BOTH able to create meaningful artwork that we would proudly hang on the wall!”
If you’re interested in workshops please subscribe to my mailing list. I promise to send only useful content. I am moving house sometime this year (hopefully) but I am planning to be back in London in spring/summer for more exciting workshops and workshop series.