Monoprint making inspired by Squam Lake

Join the Squam Lakes Association (SLA) on a pontoon boat tour in the morning to explore the lake, take reference photos, and do a plankton haul. We will then return to shore to examine the plankton haul in the water lab and examine the contents through a microscope, with a camera, projected onto a large screen. Next, we will have a lunch break, bring your own. Resources, including books, will be available to peruse during lunch. At 1:00 we will have an introduction to monoprint making and various tools used for this medium. You will sketch out your chosen subject matter before using pencils to incise (carve) images into foam with sharp pencils. We will then ink up our foam with water soluble, environmentally friendly ink and print on paper and canvases, one of each, so participants can leave with two pieces of artwork. We will have a gallery walk once folks have completed at least one print. Then, you are welcome to stay until 3.

Cost is $45, which includes the cost of printing materials.

All ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by adults. Space is limited, so register early.

Participants should be prepared for rain or shine. Bring sunscreen, insect repellant, a tie-on or snug fitting hat that can’t blow away on the boat, and warm clothes and a windbreaker for changing weather. The second half of the workshop we most likely will work indoors in the big barn on tables for printing.

You may bring your own art equipment, but the instructor will provide materials.

Professor Emerita MaryAnn McGarry of Environmental Science and Policy at Plymouth State University (PSU) took up monoprint making, upon retiring in 2021. She is continually enrolled in art classes, primarily at Artistic Roots in Plymouth, New Hampshire working with her mentor, Annette Mitchell, Professor Emerita of Art at PSU. Annette Mitchell, wrote the book, “Foam Is Where the Art Is: New Ways To Print.” We will be adopting Mitchell’s techniques, and the book will be available as a reference.
As an artist, McGarry focuses on the natural world- ideally aiming to weave together whimsical elements, while evoking a sense of wonder, and prompting others to become engaged in conservation and stewardship. Typically McGarry prints on canvases she paints a base acrylic color and she add flourishes of acrylic detail to complete her work.
McGarry recently had an exhibit as a Visiting Artist at Artistic Roots, March-June, 2025 on Winter activities in the Whites and Untamed New Hampshire (which featured native wildlife). McGarry also has art exhibited at Squam Lakes Association in their inaugural exhibit to showcase their new addition. She will have some of her work available at the workshop.

The Squam Lakes Association

Squam Lakes Association