Meet the Maker: Rose Agar

I'm Rose, a printmaker, from and still living in the City of York. I work part-time in retail and do my printmaking the rest of the time. I come from a creative family, so I always have different projects on the go. I love reading, sewing and embroidery, but always go back to lino printing.

Describe your printmaking process.

I always sketch my designs in my sketchbooks first. When I'm happy with a design, I transfer it to a block of soft cut lino and start carving. I will sometimes do a test print if I'm unsure about the detailing. Once done, I prepare my paper and start printing!

How and where did you learn to print?

I did art and design at college and took an evening print class to do a bit of screen printing. It wasn't until a few years later that I decided to give lino cut printing a try. I taught myself to carve the blocks and went from there.

Why printmaking?

I love the whole process of printmaking as it makes you forget about everything else. I find it really satisfying when I have made a design and print I love. I also love how a print can look different depending on the paper or colour of the ink used.

Where do you work?

I work from home on the dining room table with my dog snoozing underneath. I don't have much storage space, but I have managed to make it work. I have my own small printing press that lives in the corner, along with a small drying rack. I would love to have my own craft room or studio space at some point in the future.

Describe a typical day in your studio.

My days can vary a lot. Some days I do some sketching, carving or write a few ideas down in one of my sketchbooks. On other days, I prepare some paper and do a bit of printing while listening to a podcast or music. Sometimes I will do a little prep work or carving in the evenings after I get back from work, too.

How long have you been printmaking?

I have been printing for about 13 years now. My style has changed a lot since I first started. I used to print on fabric a lot, I still do occasionally, but I focus mainly on original prints.

What inspires you?

I'm always inspired by nature, especially woodland nature. I love watching and listening to the birds in the garden or while out walking my dog. Seeing the change in the seasons always brings fresh ideas too, as you see things in different colours or lights.

What is your favourite printmaking product?

I love Caligo safe wash inks. I've not been using them for that long, but they have become a firm favourite. Another favourite is lokta paper, I just love the natural colours and texture of it.

What have you made that you are most proud of?

I think at the moment it has to be my green man print. It took me a while to carve, and I usually stay away from carving more detailed faces if I can. But it came out so much better than I was expecting, and now it is one of my favourite prints. I'm proud of the amount of detail I managed to get into one print.

Where can we see your work? Where do you sell?

I sell my work on Etsy and have been doing so for a few years now. A selection of my work is also available in Beck Steps Gallery in Grasmere and The Blue Gallery & Shop in Hawkshead.

What will we be seeing from you next?

I'm working on another Robin linocut print at the moment, one inspired by springtime. I'm also hoping to try some ocean/beach-inspired designs after spending time in Robin Hood's Bay, one of my favourite places.

Do you have any advice for other printmakers and creatives?

I think I would say don't worry about what other people or makers are doing. Everyone has their own way of working, so focus on what makes you happy. Also, don't be afraid to experiment, it's fun to try new colours or styles sometimes.