This Create Inclusion collaborative project brings together Garvald Edinburgh and Edinburgh Printmakers to support the professional development of three talented learning disabled artists: Kwok Kin Chan, Alison Edward, and David Lorimer.
Over two ten-week blocks of masterclasses, the artists have explored a rich variety of printmaking techniques, including Lego printing, photo-exposed screen printing, mono screen printing. dry point etching, tetra pack printing, collagraph printing and copper plate etching. Under the guidance of printmaker Fiona Maher and with tailored support from Garvald staff, the artists have been able to connect deeply with different processes and embed new techniques into their practices.
The project is a testament to how providing time, expertise, and a supportive environment can transform artistic practice. By removing barriers to inclusion it has enabled these artists to expand their creative possibilities and contribute their voices to Edinburgh Printmakers vibrant community.
Supported by Creative Scotland Create Inclusion Fund.
Banner image: David Lorimer, Square colours, collagraph, 2025.
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Artworks available for purchase
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Sessions were held in the quieter Learning Studio at Edinburgh Printmakers which ensured the project met the sensory and access needs of autistic artists Alison and David, and visually impaired artist Kwok. Through this considered approach, the artists’ confidence and skillsets have flourished and their visual language has expanded.
Each artist has engaged deeply with the creative process. Alison and David thrived in the structured, routine-based sessions, gaining confidence and finding joy in the tactile processes of rolling ink, inking plates, and mastering the print press. Kwok navigated the technical demands of printmaking with determination, curiosity and innovation.
The sustained approach and ongoing relationship with tutor Fiona Maher have been key to the artists’ growth. They have been able to explore at their own pace, revisit techniques, and develop a sense of control over their favourite processes.
Presenting their work and discussing their experiences has boosted their self-belief and placed them firmly within the printmaking community.
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Words from the facilitator - Fiona Maher
“There are things about this project that stand out for me, the shared problem solving to arrive at solutions to processes to accommodate different abilities , the decisiveness of the 3 artists regarding colour and composition and their willingness to embrace new techniques and use them to develop their work. There was a real sense of a shared journey, and I quickly felt trusted as a facilitator.”
“As an artist, I have now used some of the adapted approaches to printmaking in my own work and very much enjoyed researching and testing out little tweaks to make techniques more accessible.”
“This was a delightful project to be involved in, and the work produced is bold and confident, something I am still aspiring to.”
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About Garvald Edinburgh
Garvald Edinburgh provides unique day services for adults with learning disabilities and autism in Edinburgh and Midlothian. Their contemporary approach, inspired by the principles of Rudolf Steiner, emphasises creativity, meaningful engagement, and inclusion.
They offer a diverse range of art, craft, performance, food and garden-based workshops. The activities are carefully designed to foster creativity and community, enhance skill development, and instil a profound sense of achievement among their members.
Their modern facilities span five locations in Edinburgh and Midlothian, and their retail outlet, The Garvald Makers, showcases the exceptional handcrafted products made by their members.
Garvald Edinburgh are dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every individual can realise their potential. Their commitment to excellence ensures that they continually adapt to meet the evolving needs of their members, ensuring they feel confident to connect with community in a way that is right for them.
This project has been supported by the Creative Scotland Create Inclusion Fund.
