A semester of printmaking at the American University Institute

The students from the Printmaking course at the IAU, Spring 2025

(photo Emilie Walsh)

Since the end of January, Couleur Studio has partnered with the American University Institute (IAU), and I taught a semester of printmaking to American exchange students in Aix-en-Provence.

What a joy it has been to accompany a group of seven students from different parts of the United States to introduce them to printmaking! I had the opportunity to work with my group twice a week throughout the semester, which allowed us to explore numerous techniques and develop a portfolio of prints with increasingly complex projects! For the first time at the workshop, we tested new mixed techniques, and my student Ella, for example, developed a multi-plate linocut and milk-carton etching project.

We also explored textile printing, and each student produced a collection of rubber stamps throughout the semester, which we were able to use to create printed tote bags as well as a series of postcards! From small and easy-to-reproduce at home projects, to more ambitious works printed using traditional presses, the students discovered the versatility of printed arts.

We notably explored the technique of milk carton etching, or Tetra-Pak etching. This technique appealed to the students because it is accessible and yields very satisfying results. In the workshop, we are equipped with a traditional etching press that allows us to print copper, zinc, and Tetra-Pak, but it is also a technique that can be printed in a simple pasta maker! This will enable the students to continue printmaking at home for their personal projects! Here are some examples of their very first Tetra-Pak prints.

Developing a university-level curriculum in printmaking has been an exciting challenge. I created new exercises to teach the advanced technique of reduction printmaking, which is a complex method for color printing. I often refer to this technique as ‘the extreme sudoku of print' because it requires a highly elaborate design work. Through a playful approach —which is a cornerstone of teaching at the workshop—the students tackled this advanced aspect of printmaking with great success!

To conclude the semester, the printmaking group was invited to participate in the spring exhibition at the Atelier Marchutz What a beautiful place to celebrate and showcase the work of students in drawing, painting, ceramics, and - for the first time - printmaking!

This year’s event saw record attendance, and my students sold many prints, some of which will travel to the United States and others that will stay in Provence with their host families. Bravo to Lilly, Celeste, Ella K, Serena, Chloe, Hannah, and Ella G for your motivation and involvement throughout the semester!

What an honor it has been to be part of this experience and to have taught talented students who presented their works in the very place where Léo Marchutz painted... and practiced printmaking! Some of his lithography stones are still there, and it is a joy to see contemporary prints showcased in this historic location.

Leo Marchutz printmaking studio with his original lithography stones (crédit photo Sabrina Lucas)

I invite you to admire a few more works among my favorites! Until next semester and another group of young artists. Looking forward to next year... See you soon, IAU!