Gelli Printing Workshop
14 September | 10:00 - 16:00
“There is something therapeutic about letting things just creatively happen” — and that’s the joy this Gelli printing workshop offers. Led by Danielle, you’ll explore a variety of techniques that allow you to print without a press, using the Gelli plate as a playful and intuitive way to experiment with colour, pattern, and texture.
Gelli printing encourages spontaneous creativity. The prints you produce may feature bold, layered designs or intricate, delicate shapes — all showcasing the versatility (and highly addictive nature!) of this medium.
Following a demonstration, you’ll begin by creating your first three-layered print. As the day progresses, you'll gain confidence and be inspired to develop your own unique style, embracing the happy accidents that are part of the process. You can explore vibrant colours or work with a more limited palette — the choice is entirely yours.
Using acrylic paints, stencils, handmade masks, textured mark-making tools, image transfers, and a selection of seasonal leaves gathered from Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, you’ll print onto a variety of papers throughout the day.
This relaxed and enjoyable workshop offers plenty of time to immerse yourself in the meditative nature of printing. You'll leave with a striking collection of one-off prints — whether as finished artworks or beautiful papers for future collage and mixed-media work.
Your final creation will be a mini concertina book, showcasing your favourite pieces. Suitable for all levels, this workshop allows everyone to work at their own pace, with plenty of guidance and demonstrations from Danielle throughout the day.
A break for lunch will be taken with afternoon tea which includes scones with cream and jam, a sandwich, a slice of cake and a tea or coffee per person. Please email info@leonardsleegardens.co.uk if you have any allergies or dietary requirements.
£70 per person | 10% off for Leonardslee Members
Please bring an apron as we will be working with acrylic paints | All materials are provided | Garden entry included | Tea & coffee will be provided throughout the workshop | Free parking for Leonardslee members | Parking Information
About Danielle Jackson
A lifelong lover of printmaking, the workshop facilitator specialised in this medium as part of a Fine Art degree. Gelli printing has become a favourite technique to teach, thanks to its accessibility no printing press required and the way it invites participants to be fully present in the creative process. The versatile gel plate comes in various sizes and is perfect for use in small spaces, making this art form approachable for all.
Recently returning to painting, the artist draws inspiration from floral forms and natural beauty an influence that aligns perfectly with regular visits to Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens alongside her children. She is a member of Horsham Artists and will be exhibiting at the October Contemporary Art Fair 2025.