About

Andrew Sharman is a printmaker and designer based in North East Essex. After a career in graphic design, he was inspired to begin his printmaking journey after attending a short course at Gainsborough House in Suffolk. Here, he discovered the true potential of relief printmaking using lino and materials such as MDF.

“My primary interest is the combination of shape, texture, and colour that printmaking can provide. My work starts with a composition idea that evolves to incorporate mark-making and texture. I often paint onto lino blocks to create free and organic shapes, which I carefully cut around with carving tools. I also use MDF blocks to produce rough shapes and textures combined with lino blocks to create the finished work.

“Experimentation is an important part of my working method. Printmaking is endlessly adaptable, and no two prints are ever the same. Working by hand leaves inconsistencies that become a part of the finished artwork.

“I am inspired by the rural land around me: overgrown hedges, rolling hills, or even broken farm machinery. I also want to express a love of nature and the importance of the environment.”

Andrew Sharman is influenced by many great artist printmakers who have worked in Essex, East Anglia, and beyond, including Edward Bawden and Eric Ravilious.