SkirridPrintStudio

My family recently told me an anecdote. I have no memory of this, but when I was 11 years old I was asked what I wanted to do when I grew up. I replied that I wanted to be a “local artist”. What a little oddball I was… I actually went to Cambridge Uni to study literature, and forgot all about art. I took on a “serious” career as a copywriter and digital strategist and have run my own consultancy business for 15 years.

The trigger was an abandoned etching press, rusting in a garage. For two years, I nagged a relative to pass this on and finally won. My dear stepdad, Jim, restored it.

So, I had no choice but to master print making. Could I even draw and design after a gap of nearly 30 years? No pressure then…

I was lucky to count a printmaker already among my friends. I joined one of their workshops and had around 8 hours of lessons. This was enough to launch my passion. But I also challenged myself and worked hard. I attended life drawing sessions for a year to improve my observation, patience and hand-to-eye coordination.

I’ve experimented and stretched myself. I’ve made plenty of mistakes. And funded my expensive hobby with the unrelated day job. Then there’s the benign neglect of my kids…


I've begun to teach printmaking now as well as exhibiting and attending events. I’ve also taken up painting. It's all really taking off and I love that I can make such diverse artworks. I do hope my passion is contagious and you enjoy the work you've bought from me. Kind wishes, Helen Arthur