I started a short course on mixed media and photo-transfer this week, having no real background in painting or mixed media beyond the little dabble with artists’ books. It took me back to school days, scrabbling round at the last minute to get the required list of kit together and packing up the bag with pinny, paint and sundry stuff.

It was an interesting introduction and we produced some practice pieces using acrylic paints on gelli plates and managed a couple of photo transfers too, so a productive session. For someone who took to photography as a surer means of achieving the images I visualise than relying on my limited painting skills, it was a bit daunting, but thoroughly enjoyable.

Next step is to plan the larger piece to produce over the next few weeks and identify my photos for inclusion. The main problem as ever is my indecision – the session stimulated so many ideas I can’t settle on one! At the moment I’m tossing up between using old family photos as a tie-in with the genealogy or to go with a theme from my own images.

Here are the first two attempts at phototransfer (using tutor-supplied photos). I have learned the hard way that it’s a good idea to leave more light areas! Whatever their limitations, it’s a delight to me to have created them and to be learning new skills. Thank you to Malvern Hills College and tutor Ivan!