Immerse yourself in the world of printed arts at Métairie Bruyère and explore every stage of the creative process, from conception to final production. This training showcases the exceptional craftsmanship and collaboration between artists and artisans. Discover how traditional printing techniques, such as engraving and lithography, combine with contemporary practices to create unique works. At the end of the training, participants will be able to

• Understand the relationship between an artistic work and its translation into print
• Explore the artistic professions related to printing, such as engraver and printer, and their role in the creative process
• Identify the characteristics of traditional and modern printing techniques, such as woodcutting or other media, lithography, or typography
• Conduct practical tests by experimenting with various media, inks, and tools to better understand their impact on the aesthetics of the work

After an introduction to the skills and creations of La Métairie Bruyère, the training program invites participants to an in-depth immersion in printmaking techniques. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the processes involved in transforming an artwork into a printed piece, blending technical expertise with an artistic approach.

Participants will learn to recognize and differentiate between the main traditional and contemporary printing techniques, such as wood and metal engraving, lithography, typography, and monotype. They will understand the specific characteristics of each process, its limitations, and the aesthetic effects it makes possible.

A key focus will be placed on the dialogue between the artist and the craftspeople—engravers and printers—whose collaboration is crucial in bringing a printed work to life. Through the study of concrete examples and completed projects, participants will discover how this interaction shapes the final result.
The training also includes a significant practical component: participants will conduct trials, experimenting with various materials, inks, and tools. These workshops will allow them to become familiar with the fundamental techniques of printmaking and to directly grasp the technical and artistic challenges of these practices.

Finally, a comprehensive program will be offered, guiding an artistic project from the initial sketch to the final print, in order to understand the entire creative process in printmaking.

For auctioneers, this training is a real asset. It provides an in-depth understanding of printing techniques, essential for authenticating, evaluating, and valuing works of art. By understanding the specificities of the processes and the collaboration between artists and craftspeople, they will be better able to advise their clients and situate pieces within their artistic and historical context, thus enriching their professional expertise.

Day 1

Introduction to the training and intaglio workshop

Morning 11:00-13:30 Etching

• Drypoint drawing on pre-varnished copper plates
• Acid etching of the plates, varnish removal, then the students print using the intaglio press
• Reworking the plates with drypoint if necessary

Afternoon 14:30-18:00 (in half-groups) Aquatint, wood engraving, and a visit in half-groups

• Reworking the copper plates for aquatint to create shades of gray
• Acid etching, varnish removal, and printing
• Preparing plates for engraving on wood

At the same time, the second group visits the engraving and lithography workshops and galleries of the center with Corinne Dutrou.

Day 2

Aquatint, Wood Engraving, and Half-Group Tour

Morning 9:00–12:30

• Reversal of the previous day's groups

Afternoon 1:30–5:30

• Continued Printing

Day 3

Typography and Artist's Books

Morning 9:00–12:30 and Afternoon 1:30–4:30

• • • Introduction to the Typography Workshop
    • Collective Printing of a Title
    • Discovery of Bibliophile Books from the extensive collection of art books published by RLD for over 50 years and printed in our Paris and Parly workshops.

Christian Mameron is a master of printmaking and an expert in printing techniques, recognized for his work at Métairie Bruyère, an exceptional graphic arts center dedicated to the preservation and innovation of traditional skills. Passionate about his craft, he practices engraving and printing, combining respect for ancestral techniques with contemporary experimentation.
An accomplished engraver and printer, Christian regularly collaborates with numerous artists and institutions, contributing to the creation of unique works that blend technical finesse and artistic sensitivity. As an experienced instructor, he enthusiastically conveys the subtleties of the fine crafts related to printing, offering his trainees a complete immersion in this rich and demanding world. His work at Métairie Bruyère reflects this dual commitment: preserving the legacy of traditional techniques while exploring new creative avenues, making him a key figure in the world of contemporary graphic art.

La Métairie Bruyère is an exceptional graphic arts center, recognized for its commitment to preserving and developing traditional skills related to the printed arts. Located in a setting conducive to creation and transmission, it brings together passionate artisans, artists, and instructors who work in synergy to promote ancient techniques while exploring contemporary innovations.
This unique location offers a rare environment where engraving, lithography, typography, and other printing processes intersect, bringing to life original works that blend technical mastery and artistic creativity. Through its workshops and training programs, Métairie Bruyère plays a vital role in the transmission of artistic crafts, welcoming interns who come to deepen their skills and immerse themselves in this fascinating world. As both a conservatory of graphic heritage and an experimental laboratory, Métairie Bruyère has established itself as a key player in the world of printed arts, supporting collaboration between artists and artisans and fostering dialogue between tradition and modernity.

• Classroom, multipurpose room
• Individual and collaborative work
• Workshop work at Métairie Bruyère
• Active participation and experimentation of participants is encouraged

• Collective and personalized monitoring of work, regular updates
• Self-assessment of technical skills
• Collective feedback
• Half-day attendance sheet
• Certification of completion issued by Campus MaNa