The Squishy Slab with Serious Creative Potential.
It jiggles. It’s squishy. It looks suspiciously like a big gummy candy. If you have no idea what a gel plate is, you’re not alone.
Gel plates are reusable printing surfaces that may seem like they belong on the toy aisle instead of the art studio. But gel plates are surprisingly powerful printmaking tools that can turn paint, textures, leaves, stencils, and everyday objects into beautiful, one-of-a-kind prints.
Its strength lies in the interaction between layers. As the artist builds layers, the play between color, surface, line, and shape evolves in serendipitous ways. The basic techniques are easy to learn, yet experienced artists can also find challenges and push creative boundaries.
Intrigued? Estero Bay Art + Craft, located in Morro Bay, will hold a gel plate class on June 18. Beginners are welcomed and no drawing skills are needed – but if you draw well, you can put that skill to use. This class offers a relaxed and welcoming environment to play, experiment, and create. All materials are provided, and you’ll leave with a collection of original prints and plenty of inspiration. Cost is $50. For information or to register, visit bit.ly/4vl1qak or call 805.771.5007.
