The Scottish Contemporary Collective continues to build momentum as we approach the next exciting milestone in our programme: a masterclass in printmaking led by internationally renowned artist Ade Adesina.
Taking place at Peacock & The Worm in Aberdeen, this workshop will introduce the first cohort of the Collective to the intricate world of linocut printmaking—a discipline that requires precision, patience, and a deep understanding of composition and contrast.
Over two intensive days, each of the four emerging artists will develop a linocut print from a prepared drawing, working under Ade’s expert guidance.
This is more than just a technical exercise; it is an immersion into a centuries-old practice that continues to evolve in contemporary art.
Meet Ade Adesina: A Master of Print
Ade Adesina is one of Scotland’s most celebrated contemporary printmakers, known for his intricately detailed linocuts and etchings. His work is a fusion of history, environmental consciousness, and storytelling, drawing inspiration from his Nigerian heritage, his life in Scotland, and his travels across the world.
His large-scale prints often depict surreal landscapes, blending the familiar with the fantastical, creating visual narratives that explore themes of climate change, colonial history, and the intersection of nature and technology.
Ade’s work has been exhibited internationally, and his mastery of printmaking techniques makes him the perfect mentor to introduce the Collective to the world of linocut.
Why Printmaking?
For many artists, printmaking is an entirely new way of thinking about composition and mark-making. Unlike painting or drawing, printmaking requires:
- A focus on contrast and negative space – Artists must carve away the areas that will remain white, leaving the raised surface to take the ink.
- Precision and control – The carving process is irreversible, making each cut an act of commitment.
- The ability to think in reverse – Since prints are mirror images of the carved block, artists must learn to plan and execute their work with a new spatial awareness.
For the Scottish Contemporary Collective’s first cohort, this workshop will provide a foundation in linocut techniques, but more importantly, it will challenge them to approach their practice differently.
Each artist will bring a prepared drawing, which they will translate into a linocut print—learning how to carve, ink, and print their work by hand.
The Venue: Peacock & The Worm, Aberdeen
This masterclass will take place at Peacock & The Worm, one of Scotland’s leading printmaking studios. Established in 1974, the studio has played a pivotal role in the development of printmaking in Scotland, supporting artists at all stages of their careers.
With a rich history of collaborating with renowned printmakers, it provides the perfect environment for the Scottish Contemporary Collective to engage with professional-grade printmaking facilities and gain hands-on experience in a setting designed to inspire.
Peacock & The Worm’s commitment to technical excellence, artistic experimentation, and community engagement aligns perfectly with the values of the Collective, making it an ideal partner for this masterclass.
A Transformative Learning Experience
This workshop is not just about learning how to carve and print a linocut—it’s about expanding creative boundaries.
By stepping into a new medium, the first cohort of the Collective will gain:
- A fresh perspective on their artistic practice – Printmaking forces artists to think in layers, contrasts, and texture, opening up new possibilities in their work.
- An understanding of traditional printmaking methods – Linocut has a long history, and learning these techniques connects emerging artists to centuries of printmaking heritage.
- Direct mentorship from a master printmaker – Ade’s technical knowledge and conceptual approach will challenge and guide the artists in ways that extend beyond the workshop.
For some of the artists, this will be an entirely new experience, while for others, it may become a technique that deeply influences their practice moving forward.
What’s Next?
The Scottish Contemporary Collective is built around the idea that technical mastery, creative exploration, and mentorship go hand in hand.
This printmaking workshop with Ade Adesina is just one of many stepping stones in a three-year journey that will equip emerging artists with skills, confidence, and connections that will shape their careers.
Follow Our Journey – We’ll be sharing insights from the workshop, including behind-the-scenes images and reflections from the artists.
Visit the Gallery – See the Collective’s progress firsthand at Tighnabruaich Gallery’s relaunch on July 26, 2025.
Join Our Mailing List – Stay updated on future workshops, exhibitions, and ways to support the next generation of Scottish artists.