Hope Press
Hope Press is a print making studio that promotes wellbeing through art. We offer introductory classes in a range of printmaking techniques, open access studio space, and supported print making sessions for people with chronic illness.
It is based in Clarence Mill, Bollington, Cheshire.
The Hope Press Story
In 2022 my life looked pretty normal: I was a Dad, a professional garden designer, and a keen walker and cyclist.
Suddenly everything changed. One day I simply couldn’t get off the sitting-room floor. I’d had a nasty tummy bug and the next thing I knew: I was diagnosed with ME/CFS.
Overnight my world shrunk to the size of a bedroom. I couldn’t face my family, I couldn’t leave the house, and I certainly couldn't work.
As the weeks passed, the thing I did discover was painting and drawing. And as the weeks turned to months I was making more and more art, and steadily feeling better.
Although I’m not 100% today, I’m leading a full and active life. Painting and printmaking has been central to that.
Let's get you involved
At Hope Press we want to make print-making available to anyone who is interested.
For people with a long-term chronic illness
I run a weekly open studio session. This is tailored for people suffering from chronic illness. There’s printmaking support on hand to help you develop your creative practise, and a supportive, welcoming vibe. The sessions are £15 but if money is an impediment to your taking part we can make a plan.
For people who’d like to try print-making
I offer a range of introductory workshops covering printmaking techniques including dry point, lino, woodcut, kitchen lithography and etching. Find out more about the different techniques here.
I can also cater to small celebratory or social groups – why not combine printmaking with a glass of wine or a cream tea? At Hope Press you can get creative with your hen-do or birthday.
To book, please contact bybenmo@gmail.com
For print-makers with a bit of experience
I offer an open access studio session on weekday evenings called ‘Print Club’. This is a session from 7pm to 9.30 where you can use the facilities to make your own work.
Membership costs £7 per month which includes your own storage box in the studio. Each session is £12.50. You can bring your own materials or buy them as you need them. Check out the facilities we have here.
