These flexible one-, two-, or three-day workshops introduce you to 19th-century photographic printmaking — blending digital workflow with hand-coated paper, watercolour pigments, and layered techniques. Longer sessions allow for deeper experimentation and refinement.
With over 30 years of experience in fine-art and historic printing, I offer focused, artist-led tuition in a small group setting.
“Seriously amazing – this is wonderful, Ian. Both conceptually and the printing. Amazing feat, really.”
— Diana H. Bloomfield, Photographer & Curator, The Art of Gum Printing“For the last few days, I had the absolute pleasure of being mentored by @ipmclaren on the process of #gumbichromate. I am mighty pleased with the results and range of possible applications! "
— Radek Husak, Artist" Brilliant Work"
— Tom Hunter, Artist / Photographer“Incredible print, Ian… to do it all in gum is just mind-blowing.”
— Ya Ya Teahouse“What a huge undertaking! Impressive!”
— Andrew Sanderson, Ilford Master Printer“Anything between 48–64 impressions… speaks volumes about your dedication and meticulousness.”
— Debajan Das Gupta"Fractured Whispers, by Ian Phillips-McLaren is a masterclass in how artists are turning to a slow way of working. Ian pushes this to a remarkable degree."
— Studies in Photography (Journal)
“Perhaps the most dominant image of the whole exhibition is Ian Phillips-McLaren’s ‘Gwen’… the largest single piece in the exhibition.”
— The Lancashire Times
My gum bichromate prints have been exhibited internationally and curated into shows by artists such as Diana H. Bloomfield. With decades of experience in fine art photography and historical processes, I offer tuition that blends traditional methods with a contemporary, creative approach.
Flexible Duration
1, 2, or 3 full days — tailored to your needs (weekend or mid-week).
A one-day session offers a strong introduction and is ideal for learning the process or creating a duotone print. Tricolour printing requires a minimum of two days due to the drying and development time needed between layers.
Most participants find that a second day allows for greater confidence, experimentation, and creative exploration. A three-day session gives you the best chance to begin developing a personal approach. However, gum printing is a slow, layered process — and even across two or three days, the emphasis is on understanding and experimentation rather than producing a fully resolved final print. The workshop is designed to give you enough knowledge and confidence to continue exploring the process in your own time, without the pressure of perfection.
Not entirely — but you’ll learn the essential foundations and leave with the knowledge you need to continue exploring at home. Gum printing rewards patience and practice. Most of my own prints take five days to complete, so even a two or three-day workshop is still just the beginning of what’s possible
Dates: Starting July 2025 – exact weekends released on registration
With over 35 years’ practice and BA/MA teaching experience in photography and fine art, I combine historical craftsmanship with modern digital workflows. You’ll leave with practical knowledge, a deeper understanding of the gum process, and the confidence to keep developing your prints independently.
A gum printing workshop usually runs for a full day. Multi-day sessions are available if you’d like to build complex multi-layer prints.
No. Gum printing can be done in normal light conditions with UV exposure. We’ll cover everything you need in the studio.
Yes. Gum bichromate printing allows you to build up layers in different pigments, creating painterly colour effects.
Workshop Fees (at a glance)
One-to-One: £360/day (save up to £100 on multi-day bookings)
Groups: £270 per participant/day (extra savings for 2–3 day bookings)
Deposit: £100 per participant to secure your place
Full Fee Structure
One-to-One Tuition
£360 per day
Save £50 on 2 days, or £100 on 3 days
Small Group Workshops
£280 per participant per day (for 2–4 participants)
Save £50 on 2 days, or £100 on 3 days (per participant)
Deposit
A £100 deposit per participant secures your place; the balance is due 5 days before the workshop.
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Enquire & Register in the form below
Ready to dive into the blue? Spaces are limited.
Email: ian@ianphillipsmclaren.com
This gum bichromate workshop also appears under gum printing classes, courses, and one-to-one tuition — ideal for artists and photographers exploring alternative processes.