Dundee Contemporary Arts

Dundee Contemporary Arts is a major arts hub in Dundee city centre. Located in a much-converted garage, it opened in 1999 and offers multiple facilities: an art gallery with a thriving visual arts programme; a two-screen cinema specialising in classic and arthouse cinema (but not averse to the odd blockbuster); a print studio and a visual research centre run in cooperation with the University of Dundee. The Jute Cafe Bar offers lunch, evening and kids' menus. The DCA is situated at the heart of Dundee's cultural and social life, located a short walk from the railway station and the main shopping centre, and close to Dundee University's campus. There is a multi-storey car park next door, with cycle lockers available at the rear.

What's On @ Dundee Contemporary Arts

Photography Forum

25 Apr 2026 - 26 Sept 2026

A popular monthly meet up for Dundee's photography community, where you can compare notes and get advice from tutors. If you're a keen photographer and would like to share your work in good company, or you'd like to meet other photographers and see their photos, then come join our Photography Forum. This informal, friendly group of enthusiasts meet regularly at DCA to share their images and thoughts on all things photography, both in front and behind the lens. We'll explore all things photographic, colour or black-and-white, and provide good constructive criticism and group support led by an experienced teacher and professional photographer. We'll discuss why we make photographs and how they can be improved.

Exhibition on Screen: Frida Kahlo

25 Apr 2026 - 16 Jun 2026

This highly engaging film takes us on a journey through the life of one of the most prevalent female icons: Frida Kahlo. She was a prolific self-portraitist, using the canvas as a mirror through all stages of her turbulent and, at times, tragic life. Guided with interview, commentary and Frida’s own words, Exhibition on Screen uncovers that this, however, was not a life defined by tragedy. "Seek a deeper understanding of the real Frida Kahlo..." Featuring key exhibitions and interviews with world renowned Kahlo curators, this film explores the extraordinary symbolism and themes in these personal canvases to seek a deeper understanding of the real Frida Kahlo. Using cinema to take an up-close and intimate look at her works we examine how great an artist she can be considered. Displaying a treasure trove of colour and a feast of vibrancy on screen, this personal and intimate film offers privileged access to her works and highlights the source of her feverish creativity, her resilience and her unmatched lust for life, men, women, politics and her cultural heritage. We might think we already know Frida Kahlo – the image of floral crowns, big brows and folk style clothing have made her a muse to generations – but what lies beneath the surface of this intensely passionate woman?

National Theatre Live: Les Liaisons Dangereuses

25 Jun 2026 - 17 Sept 2026

Les Liaisons Dangereuses by Christopher Hampton based on the novel by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos and directed by Marianne Elliott BAFTA Award-winner Lesley Manville (Phantom Thread) joins Aidan Turner (Rivals) in a striking new staging of Christopher Hamptons celebrated adaptation of the classic novel, where among the glittering salons of the super-rich, one misstep can mean ruin. Marquise de Merteuil is a master in the art of survival. Alongside the magnetic Vicomte de Valmont, they turn seduction into strategy and weaponise desire. But when their alliance collapses into rivalry, the battle between them threatens to destroy everyone in their path. Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Marianne Elliott (Angels in America) directs this thrilling game of love, lies, and social warfare.

National Theatre Live: The Playboy of the Western World

28 May 2026 - 20 Aug 2026

The Playboy of the Western World by John Millington Synge and directed by Caitrona McLaughlin Nicola Coughlan (Bridgerton) joins anna Hardwicke (The Sixth Commandment) and Siobhn McSweeney (Derry Girls) in John Millington Synges riveting play of youth and self-discovery. Pegeen Flahertys life is turned upside down when a young man walks into her pub claiming that hes killed his father. Instead of being shunned, the killer becomes a local hero and begins to win hearts, that is until a second man unexpectedly arrives on the scene Filmed live on stage at the National Theatre, Caitrona McLaughlin directs this darkly funny tale full to the brim with secrets.

Dundead Horror Film Festival

6 May 2026 - 9 May 2026

Annual horror and cult film festival that brings together a mix of previews and premieres of brand new genre titles, as well as specially selected horror classics.

National Theatre Live: All My Sons

16 Apr 2026 - 9 Jul 2026

Bryan Cranston (Breaking Bad) and Marianne Jean-Baptiste (Hard Truths) feature in a five-star, triumphantly acclaimed new production of Arthur Miller’s classic play, from visionary director Ivo Van Hove (A View from the Bridge). One family, the heart of the American dream. When wartime delivers profits for Joe, it comes at a price when his partner is charged with criminal manufacturing deals, and his eldest son goes missing in action. Will peacetime bring peace of mind, or will he be confronted by the consequence of his actions? Filmed live from the West End, Paapa Essiedu (I May Destroy You), Tom Glynn-Carney (House of the Dragon), and Hayley Squires (I, Daniel Blake) also feature in this disturbingly prescient play.

TayBrick Show 2026

29 Aug 2026 - 30 Aug 2026

Taybrick 2026: Dundees Ultimate brick built Fan Event! Join us for the not-for-profit brick event of the year! Whether youre a lifelong fan or looking for the perfect family day out, Taybrick 2026 brings the world of bricks to life right here in Dundee. Whats on at Taybrick? Jaw-Dropping Displays: Marvel at massive, custom-built creations from expert builders across the country. Interactive Building Pits: Get hands-on and unleash your own creativity with thousands of bricks. Minifigure Hunts: Explore the displays to find hidden characters and win a prize Looking to add to your collection? We are excited to host specialist LEGO traders! This is your chance to browse and buy: Retired & Rare Sets you cant find in high-street shops. Custom Minifigures and hard-to-find characters. Loose Bricks & Accessories to finish your own masterpieces. Charity Support: Every ticket sold helps us support local causes. Have fun while making a difference! WIN A UCS STAR WARS SET! Feeling lucky? We are hosting an exclusive charity raffle with a truly spectacular prize: a Large LEGO Star Wars Ultimate Collector Series (UCS) set! These massive, highly detailed sets are the crown jewels of any collection. Raffle tickets will be available to purchase at the eventdon't miss your chance to take home a masterpiece! Event Details Dates: Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th August 2026 Location: DCA (Dundee Contemporary Arts) Dundee Best for: Families, collectors, and builders of all ages! Dont miss out! Tickets are limited and our events often sell out in advance. Secure your spot now for a weekend of inspiration and imagination. Under 14's must be accompanied by an adult.

Exhibition Tours: We Contain Multitudes

16 Apr 2026 - 16 Apr 2026

Join us for a slow-looking tour of the exhibition with DCA’s new Head of Exhibitions, Dan Brown. This guided tour will encourage a thoughtful and unhurried engagement with the artworks, providing space to explore the themes, processes, and practices of the artists featured in We Contain Multitudes.

Adana Press: Desktop Letterpress (April

9 Apr 2026 - 9 Apr 2026

Give letterpress a try with an easy to use, table top press. Adana Letterpress Machines revolutionised letterpress and moveable type and have been used for printing by professionals and hobbyists for over 100 years. This class is perfect for anyone wanting to learn some simple desktop publishing.

Adana Press: Desktop Letterpress (June

18 Jun 2026 - 18 Jun 2026

Aquatint Etching (August

19 Aug 2026 - 19 Aug 2026

Learn how to use aquatinting techniques to create tonal prints. This three-evening course teaches you how to apply hand painted tonal marks to metal etching plates, demonstrating how to create layers of tone to illuminate your drawn etched lines. An ideal follow up class for those who have already completed Introduction to Etching, or for artists wanting to refresh their intaglio skills.

Aquatint Etching (June

16 Jun 2026 - 16 Jun 2026

Black and White Photography: Darkroom for Beginners (September

26 Sept 2026 - 26 Sept 2026

Learn how to process your black and white film, make contact sheets and explore black and white printing. Bring an exposed 35mm Ilford FP4 or HP5 film with you and our expert tutor will teach you all the stages of film development, including developing and fixing your photographic prints. You will be working in a darkroom in very low-level lighting (red safe light) and complete darkness. If you think you may find this difficult let the tutor know beforehand, most people adjust very quickly though. You should leave with some good photographs and a feeling of achievement.

Black and White Photography: Darkroom for Beginners (June

6 Jun 2026 - 6 Jun 2026

Bookbinding: Book Repair (July

22 Jul 2026 - 22 Jul 2026

Learn more about how books are made and simple methods to repair and protect them using archival materials and reversible solutions. Bring along your own book and be be guided through its repair by Emma, an accredited book conservator with the over 20 years experience.

Bookbinding: Japanese Cloth Covered Accordion Album (April

8 Apr 2026 - 8 Apr 2026

Create your own Japanese-inspired book. Learn to construct an album of double leaves, making it perfect for writing or painting on both sides. The accordion structure is flexible to work with and sculpturally interesting. The boards will be covered with book cloth inspired by Japanese Kimono patterns.

Collagraphy (May

14 May 2026 - 14 May 2026

Use recycled materials to make your own collection of prints. Collagraphy is the original recycling technique that uses card, textures and materials collaged together to make versatile plates that can be printed as intaglio or relief. The results from this printmaking technique always produce rich ‘sculptured’ surfaced prints. In the first session you will learn how to prepare and coat a card collagraph plate using different collage techniques and materials. In following sessions you will learn to make prints from your collagraph plate using intaglio and relief methods. You may go on to make more plates having learned how.

Craft Sunday: Botanical Sculptures with Natalia Manczak

31 May 2026 - 31 May 2026

Embrace spring by making your own cosmos flowers from paper with botanical sculptor Natalia Manczak. Join Natalia for an afternoon of relaxing crafting where she’ll take you through all the steps needed to make your very own cosmos flowers using the best Italian crepe paper. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a beautiful, handcrafted bunch of flowers to take home and the skills to continue making more at home. As always, we’ll have plenty of tea, coffee and biscuits to help fuel your making during this fun afternoon of crafts.

Craft Sunday: Personalised Leather Accessories with S.K Works

14 Jun 2026 - 14 Jun 2026

Join couple Ian and Ashley of S.K Works and learn how to make your own personalised envelope card purse and keyring. After you’ve chosen from a selection of leather colours, you’ll be guided through the step-by-step process to create your purse and keyring, from cutting out the leather, to edging, painting, burnishing and personalising your pieces. Ian and Ashley will be on hand to pass on expert tips and knowledge and teach you the skills to continue your leather making journey. As always, we’ll have plenty of tea, coffee and biscuits to help fuel your making during this fun afternoon of crafts.

Craft Sunday: Shibori Silk Scarves with Syrah Jay

26 Apr 2026 - 26 Apr 2026

Local maker Syrah Jay is back to share the secrets of Shibori and this time we’ll be creating silk scarves in many different colours. Shibori is a Japanese manual resist dyeing technique, which produces patterns on fabric. Dating back to the 8th century, the most customary colour that used was indigo, an intensely rich shade of blue. Modern day Shibori uses a variety of colours and in this workshop you will get to experiment with a complementary palette as well as the traditional indigo. Join Syrah and learn how to make your own shibori silk scarf by folding, twisting and stitching your fabric to create a unique piece of wearable art. You’ll also have the opportunity to make some textile jewellery using indigo dyed cord, beads and simple knotting techniques. As always, we’ll have plenty of tea, coffee and biscuits to help fuel your making during this fun afternoon.

Create Your Own Pinhole Camera (September

5 Sept 2026 - 5 Sept 2026

Go back to basics with this workshop and learn how to construct your own cardboard camera, then use it to take photos This class will cover the basics of pinhole photography followed by the magical chemical process of developing black and white prints in a darkroom. During the course of the day, you’ll make your own 5x4inch camera from cardboard, use direct positive paper to make photographs with the camera outside and then use developing paper in the darkroom to develop your photographs.

Cyanotype (June

27 Jun 2026 - 27 Jun 2026

Spend a day exploring this early photographic process. You'll learn about the history of cyanotype and be taken through all steps of the process, including preparing an image from a photograph or negative, coating of paper with cyanotype solution, using an enlarger to make a contact print on to the coated paper, developing your prints in the darkroom, washing and drying. You'll leave with a set of sticking blue prints.

Experimental Relief Etch Printing (September

12 Sept 2026 - 12 Sept 2026

Explore lino etching, a versatile and painterly printmaking technique. You'll learn how to create gestural marks, tonal gradients and textures on lino, while combining traditional cutting techniques for a dynamic and layered approach. Experiment with various tools and methods, including caustic soda paste for etching, as well as using precision tools like the Dremel and lino carving gauges. The course will also cover key skills such as registration and multi-block printing, enabling you to create complex, multi-layered prints.

Gocco: Digital Screen Stencil Making (May

26 May 2026 - 26 May 2026

Try your hands at our new GoccoPro digital screen maker. This is the new generation of equipment from the Riso company. Using similar technology to the Riso and MiScreen machines which perforates images onto a printing stencils, the GoccoPro radically reduces the need for photo emulsions, tape, separations, water and energy used in traditional screen making process. The GoccoPro will also automatically apply fine halftones to photographic images. This course is designed for individuals with previous knowledge of screen printing. You'll learn how to use the GoccoPro equipment to transfer an image onto mesh and then use that to create a screenprint.

Introduction to Adobe Lightroom (August

8 Aug 2026 - 8 Aug 2026

Learn all about Lightroom, the streamlined photo-retouching and organisational software from the makers of Photoshop. Taking Adobe's photo-specific functions and putting them into one package, Lightroom is perfect if you want to edit and adjust your images easily. In this course you'll be introduced to the Lightroom interface and its layout and functions. You'll be taken through all stages of using the software, from importing, organising and rating files to editing and adjusting photographs, exporting finished files and print and web preparation.

Introduction to Adobe Photoshop (April

25 Apr 2026 - 25 Apr 2026

Photoshop is made easy in this weekend course. Using our computers (or your own laptop if you prefer) you will use the most well known photo-editing software, Adobe Photoshop, to adjust and improve your images.  You will learn how to use the programme tools, menus, and functions, to colour correct, adjust tone, clone and remove small objects, add text, understand and use layers and selections. Photoshop can also be used for drawing and painting in a digital workspace.

Introduction to Digital Photography (August

29 Aug 2026 - 29 Aug 2026

Unlock the creative potential of your camera and take control of your photos. Ever wondered what all those setting on your camera mean? This two-day course will explain the benefits of taking control of these settings for yourself. You will learn how to achieve correct exposure, improve your colours, different aperture and shutter speed settings and how they affect your images, and how to compensate for different lighting conditions in a creative way to achieve improved results. The course will take place over two days and will allow you to learn all of these things at a comfortable pace through a combination of lessons, discussions and practical exercises in the comfort of the DCA, and also out and about in the real world for continued learning and to put your new skills into practice. Regardless of whether your camera is a DSLR, Mirrorless, or Compact, as long as it has the capability to use manual settings it will be suitable for this course. Please note: If your camera does not have the ability to manually change exposure settings (aperture/shutter speed/ ISO), then it will not be suitable.

Introduction to Digital Photography (May

23 May 2026 - 23 May 2026

Introduction to Etching (July

15 Jul 2026 - 15 Jul 2026

Learn the basics of etching over two evenings. Explore a variety of processes and leave with a small edition of prints. This class is suitable for people who want try out the basic etching process using small plates. You will learn how to prepare a metal plate for etching by filing and polishing, then applying a wax hard ground to the surface for drawing onto. A copper sulphate solution is used to etch the designs on the plate. You will spend time learning how to prepare the paper and ink up the plate to produce a small edition of prints using different colours of ink and Chine Colle.

Introduction to Etching (May

12 May 2026 - 12 May 2026

Introduction to Laser Cutting (August

22 Aug 2026 - 22 Aug 2026

Join us for a one-day introduction to our laser cutter. Learn how to laser-cut and engrave hand-drawn, computer-generated and photographic images onto different materials such as paper, wood and Perspex. This course is perfect for artists, designers and individuals who want to explore using CNC technology to make print matrixes.

Introduction to Laser Cutting (May

16 May 2026 - 16 May 2026

Introduction to Lino Cutting (August

13 Aug 2026 - 13 Aug 2026

This two-week class is perfect for total beginners, catering for people who would like to learn the basic stages of lino cutting. Use specialist tools to create intricate hand-carved blocks, which are then printed on a vintage press. Learn how to make a monotone lino cut print, from using cutting tools to transfer your design onto a lino block to using oil-based inks to print with. At the end of the course you should have completed some lino prints to take home (or collect from the Print Studio at a later date).

Introduction to Lino Cutting (May

24 May 2026 - 24 May 2026

Introduction to Mono Printing (June

13 Jun 2026 - 13 Jun 2026

Perfect for beginners and a great introduction to the world of printmaking. This course will introduce several different types of mono printing, each with their own distinctive characteristics. Images will be created by using specialist equipment, layering up inked stencils with painted and drawn marks to create unique one-off monotype prints.

Introduction to Printmaking (June

20 Jun 2026 - 20 Jun 2026

Enjoy an introduction to our Print Studio and try some simple printmaking processes at this fun and relaxed afternoon workshop. Take a tour of our state-of-the-art equipment and find out about the main types of etching, relief printing, screen printing and photography. You'll get the chance to try some of the simpler stages of printmaking and produce a few prints to take home.

Introduction to Printmaking (September

19 Sept 2026 - 19 Sept 2026

Introduction to Screen Printing (April

18 Apr 2026 - 18 Apr 2026

The perfect introduction to the screen printing process. Screen printing is one of the most popular printmaking techniques in DCA Print Studio. In this one-day workshop you will learn how to create wonderfully colourful and graphic prints using hand-cut paper stencils. This class will give you the basic skills needed to move onto more advanced screen printing courses.

Introduction to Screen Printing (August

27 Aug 2026 - 27 Aug 2026

The perfect introduction to the screen printing process. Screen printing is one of the most popular printmaking techniques in DCA Print Studio. In this three-week course you will learn how to create wonderfully colourful and graphic prints using hand-cut paper stencils. This class will give you the basic skills needed to move onto more advanced screen printing courses.

Introduction to Screen Printing (July

11 Jul 2026 - 11 Jul 2026

Introduction to Screen Printing (June

6 Jun 2026 - 6 Jun 2026

Introduction to Stone Lithography (August

8 Aug 2026 - 8 Aug 2026

Explore the process of Stone Lithography in this weekend course. Developed in the late 18th Century, stone lithography is a traditional printmaking process where an image is drawn on and then printed from a flat slab of limestone. This two-day class offers an introduction to the process where you will be guided through the different stages to create your own stone lithograph print.

Introduction to Wood Engraving (April

25 Apr 2026 - 25 Apr 2026

This course offers a great introduction into the tools and techniques needed for creating prints from wood engravings. Working with an end grain practice block as well as a resin one, you’ll use traditional wood engraving tools to create your designs. From these blocks you will then create wonderful repeat patterns on Japanese papers. At the end of the class, you’ll be able to take away a small collection of repeat pattern prints, as well as the blocks which can be worked on and re-printed in the future.

Introduction to Wood Engraving (July

19 Jul 2026 - 19 Jul 2026

Japanese Brush Calligraphy (May

17 May 2026 - 17 May 2026

Gain an insight into the ancient art form of ‘Shodo’, the ‘Way of the Brush’. Experience an ink grinding meditation to centre and still the mind. Experience drawing a Zen circle, draw numerous characters using different styles of calligraphy, and explore the use of various kinds of brushes. You will learn how to hold and use a traditional brush, and how to structure a Kanji (a Chinese character). You will practise several styles of brush calligraphy, with the opportunity to use different brushes and work on different scales. Add the finishing touch to your favourite works by placing the signature in the shape of a name seal.

Japanese Woodblock Printing (August

1 Aug 2026 - 1 Aug 2026

Step back in time into the intriguing world of Japan’s Edo Period, and gain an insight into the mysteries of ‘Ukiyo-e’ woodblock prints. The course starts with an introduction into the history of Japanese woodblock printing and culture. The tutor will discuss the different materials and equipment used and show examples of both ukiyo-e prints and works using the techniques in a more contemporary way. You will learn how to prepare your woodblock and make a design for your print using a traditional brush. You will then transfer your design onto the wood and learn how to utilise the Japanese cutting tools when carving your block. Cutting down handmade Japanese paper and dampening it overnight prepares it for the exciting process of inking up your block on the second day with water-based pigments in order to create beautiful, colour woodblock prints. No press is required, but instead a baren (a hand burnishing pad) is used to burnish the paper against the surface of the inked block.

Masterclass: Illuminate a Page with Letterpress (October

2 Oct 2026 - 2 Oct 2026

Over a long weekend, learn how to illuminate your own words (or words by others) by combining the crafts of Wood Engraving, Letterpress and decorative borders. Join Master printer Beth Robertson on this journey of moveable type, decorative borders and hand printed illustration

Mezzotint (August

29 Aug 2026 - 29 Aug 2026

Learn all about Mezzotint, a monochrome intaglio process. Meaning ‘halftone’ in Italian, Mezzotint creates a small ‘hand rocked’ plate, which prints a famously rich black tone. Learn how to work from dark to light, ‘burnishing’ back areas of a Mezzotint copper plate to then print atmospheric images. In this class you’ll learn how to make a small copper mezzotint plate by hand ‘rocking’, how to use the different tools and oil-based inks and how to ink up and print your mezzotint plate using an intaglio printing press. At the end of the class you will have created a number of prints to take home.

MiScreen: Digital Desktop Screen Printing (August

18 Aug 2026 - 18 Aug 2026

MiScreen digital screen printing machines offer a new way to create screen prints. Similar to Risography, this process allows you to make incredibly fine detailed images onto screen mesh, which you print by hand, without the need for chemical solutions, separations or excessive use of water and energy. In this class you will create a screen printed digital ‘collage’ of layered imagery using MiScreen generated stencils and traditional screen printing techniques. Learn the basics of screen printing, from making simple paper stencils to pulling a print. You'll then be introduced to the MiScreen equipment and how to transfer an image onto mesh which you will then use to create your own prints.

Mokulito: Japanese Wood Lithography (August

22 Aug 2026 - 22 Aug 2026

Learn how to make prints using this form of lithography developed in Japan. Mokulito is a form of lithography developed in the 1970s, which replaces the stone matrix surface with wood. The term Mokulito derives from the Japanese words ‘Moku’ meaning wood and ‘Lito’ meaning Lithography. Learn how to make prints using this wonderful process, that infuses the unique grain of the wood matrix along with hand painted marks and incisions of the artist.

Mokulito: Japanese Wood Lithography (May

9 May 2026 - 9 May 2026

Paper Pulp Printing (September

26 Sept 2026 - 26 Sept 2026

Learn to use coloured paper pulp to make prints from simple drawn or photographic stencils. Make a stencil using screen printing techniques and then catch tiny amounts of paper pulp in the screen to produce an image. This can then be transferred onto a freshly made sheet of paper. The image then becomes part of the paper - no inks or paint needed.

Reduction Lino Printing (August

15 Aug 2026 - 15 Aug 2026

Explore a variety of methods to produce single and multiple colour prints. This course will cover use of tools, equipment and techniques for both reduction and multi-block printing. You'll learn how to make a lino print, from how to transfer your design onto a lino block to printing your design using oil-based inks and a Victorian relief printing press. The course will also introduce a few ideas for achieving half-tones or texture and you'll leave with a small portfolio of prints.

Reduction Lino Printing (July

4 Jul 2026 - 4 Jul 2026

Riso Printing (Beginners) (April

28 Apr 2026 - 28 Apr 2026

Learn all about the wonderful world of Risograph printing and create multilayered prints. ‘Riso’ is a fast-paced process that uses soy based inks and recycled paper. This course is perfect for using all kinds of hand drawn techniques and collage to create richly coloured multi-layered prints. You'll learn how to prepare your design by using collage, drawing, and painting in colour-separated layers. Then you'll print your design by choosing from our selection of bright colours.

Riso Printing (Beginners) (July

16 Jul 2026 - 16 Jul 2026

Riso Printing (Beginners) (June

17 Jun 2026 - 17 Jun 2026

Riso Printing (Beginners) (September

22 Sept 2026 - 22 Sept 2026

Screen Printing (Intermediate) (July

7 Jul 2026 - 7 Jul 2026

Develop your skills using photographic techniques and power-assisted screen printing tables. This course covers all aspects of how to construct a screenprint using images from photo stencils. You will first be shown examples of limited edition prints that were produced in DCA Print Studio. These examples demonstrate the range of mark making and types of images that can be used in screen printing. You will also try basic drawing and block-printing techniques, which can be used in your designs. The following three weeks will include in-depth demonstrations for using the studio equipment to coat, expose, develop and print a screen. This course requires previous experience of screen printing at a beginner’s level.

Screen Printing (Intermediate) (May

6 May 2026 - 6 May 2026

Screen Printing (Intermediate) (September

16 Sept 2026 - 16 Sept 2026

Signwriting (July

25 Jul 2026 - 25 Jul 2026

Learn traditional hand-lettering for signwriting. Learn the basics of signwriting: from brush-handling skills to illustrative work and gold-leaf or glass gilding. This introductory course covers various brushes, paints, mahlsticks, pounce patterns and tracings, chalks, tapes, letterform layout & hand-drawing of Sans Serif, Roman & Casual Scripts. If you've been before then the tutor can help you move on to a different technique.

Signwriting (May

30 May 2026 - 30 May 2026

Soft Ground Etching with Feathers (May

16 May 2026 - 16 May 2026

Bring a feather and use it to create an edition of beautiful prints. Whether you have some knowledge of etching or you’re a complete beginner, this is lo-fi method of printmaking is fun and creates great results. You will learn how to prepare small zinc plates for the soft ground etching technique and then use it to create feather prints with a variety of deckled edged papers, inks and ‘Chine Colle’.

Soft Ground Etching with Feathers (September

5 Sept 2026 - 5 Sept 2026

Tetra Pak Dry Point Printing (April

11 Apr 2026 - 11 Apr 2026

Learn how to do dry point printing the lo-fi way using recycled Tetra Paks. Tetra Pak printing is essentially an intaglio printmaking process, similar to etching or dry point on metal. Instead of using metal plates as the printing matrix, this class uses recycled Tetra Pak cartons. This material can be cut easily into different shapes and it's possible to achieve very fine line drawings or textured areas. You will also use 'Chine Colle' techniques to introduce pre-glued pieces of coloured papers. This is a perfect course for both beginner and intermediate printmakers, and you will leave with a collection of wonderfully detailed intaglio prints.

Tetra Pak Dry Point Printing (July

18 Jul 2026 - 18 Jul 2026

Wood Engraving (May

20 May 2026 - 20 May 2026

Learn how to work with this beautiful form of printmaking and use fine engraving tools to create detailed designs. Create images by cutting into the surface of the end grain of box, lemon or cherry wood. You'll be taken through all stages of the wood engraving process, from preparing woodblocks, and practising on starter blocks to engraving your design, selecting your paper and printing. You will finish the course with a small collection of prints, block printed in black and white, as well as the wood blocks which can be worked on and re-printed in the future. Please note that we are using end grain wood blocks therefore the prints are petite. This allows the printmaker to create small delicate pieces.

Wood Engraving (September

7 Sept 2026 - 7 Sept 2026

Andrew Gannon Performance: THIS WORK MAY CONTAIN NUTS

11 Apr 2026 - 11 Apr 2026

Free and drop-in, not bookable just on Spektrix for audience info / visitor tracking This performance explores the social pressure to conceal disability, asking what happens when the disabled body is made visible instead. Using squirty cream to replace a limb cast, Gannon playfully 'decorates' his left arm, drawing on ideas of aestheticisation, absurdity and discomfort.

Spring Drop-in

6 Apr 2026 - 17 Apr 2026

Enjoy some fun, creative activities during the Easter holidays with our Create Space drop-in sessions. No booking required, just pop along between 10:00 and 13:00 for activities inspired by the exhibition We Contain Multitudes, including motion drawing, recycled material sculptures, watercolours and drawing games. A member of our Learning team wil be on hand to assist with your making. These are drop-in sessions rather than formal workshops, so feel free to arrive and leave when you wish.

Breast Buddies Dundee

16 Apr 2026 - 30 Apr 2026

DCA is the new home of Breast Buddies Dundee. This group offers a nurturing, non-judgmental space for mums and mums-to-be to come along with their bumps and babies. Join us to socialise, meet new friends and get breastfeeding and infant feeding support. This friendly group offers a safe place to speak openly about challenges and feel supported by your peers.

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