Engraving Course with Pierce Healy | 23 – 24 September 2023

About the course

Ever since mankind crawled from the swamp to stand upright he/she has been mark making, scratching and scaring the earth's crust or own skin whether marking territory, adorning or storytelling. Do you want to become part of this continuum, and become a link in this chain of curious storytelling mark makers?

The aim of the course is not only to develop a basic understanding of the tools, techniques and materials used in hand engraving. But also to experiment and harness engraving creatively. Once a basic grasp of the tools are digested you will unleash your tools on alternative materials: wax, wood, coconut, plastic, and anything else you desire to capture your designs and stories.

The course will focus on different topics:

• Develop a sound basic understanding of the tools

• Tool set up, sharpening, geometry, holding devices, image transfer

• Engrave alternative materials, wax, wood, coconut, plastic ect. 

• Storytelling through mark making

What should I bring?

Students are encouraged to bring materials and objects they would like to engrave and experiment with.

All tools and base metals (copper, brass) are provided. Also, you will walk away from the class with 2 customised engravers fashioned to your hand, which are included in the course fee, so you will be ready to continue your engraving escapade!

Who is this course for?

Eccentric weirdos, students, jewellers, artists and craft practitioners who are looking to explore new approaches to making, who want to get the chance to experiment, add new skills to their repertoire and broaden their creative and working practices.

About the tutor

Being Irish Pierce Healy is a born storyteller. Know for his subversive jewellery and objects, often layered with intricate engravings he refers to himself as a human Swiss army knife; not in an Edward Scissorshands way but in the way he toils in an array of materials and disciplines in addition to the numerous skills he has acquired throughout his life so far. In between studio work, artist residences and teaching worldwide Pierce conjures visual incongruities, manifested as jewellery and objects, in an attempt to make sense of the nonsense of the everyday and to question common values and what is valuable! Meet the tutors here.