RetreaTs
I n k & P a p e r I t a l y
P r i n t m a k i n g & A r t R e t r e a t s i n I t a l y
Wild Botanicals:
& Plant Lore
Monoprinting
Botanical
Upcoming Retreat: October 4 – 9 2026
Botanical monoprinting is an intuitive printmaking process that uses layered colour, texture, and natural plant forms to create unique state prints.
The colour is applied to the matrix and layered using rollers, inks, pressed botanicals, other textural elements are also explored to build richly textured, multi-layered one-off, botanical prints.
Through demonstrations and guided experimentation, participants learn how to create harmonious colour palettes, build translucent layers, develop composition, and understand how colour interactions shift through the printing process.
Participants are also introduced to a range of fine art papers, exploring how different surfaces, weights, and textures affect the final printed image and atmosphere of each work.
Throughout the retreat, gathered flora from the Umbrian landscape become the basis for a growing collection of prints, studies, and visual notes: part artwork, part botanical field journal.
Participants leave with a personal archive of original prints that may be framed individually or later developed into an artist’s book or botanical collection.
This retreat requires a minimum of 6 participants. Please note that places are limited to 10 for the actual Monoprinting component of the retreat. This is to ensure all participants receive personalised guidance.
What is
Botanical
Monoprinting?
Your Tutors
Megan Hunter is a printmaker and artist with over 25 years of experience in etching, relief, and experimental print processes. She guides participants through the full studio journey - from the preparation of the flora, colour palette and compositional considerations, medium behaviour - demonstrating various monoprinting techniques - assisting participants to confidently realise their own set of original botanical prints.
Working alongside her is Julia Behrens, a medical herbalist and educator with over 25 years of experience in medicinal plant knowledge and community health. She holds an Honours degree in Herbal Medicine and has lectured at institutions including the University of East London and the University of Westminster. Her work also includes collaborations with organisations such as WWF and Neal’s Yard Remedies.
During the retreat, Julia guides participants in exploring the Umbrian landscape through plant identification and foraging walks, offering insight into the medicinal, ecological, and cultural uses of local flora. Participants collect flowers and plants and once back in the studio the flora is separated-some are placed under boards to flatten and dry in preparation for printing, and the rest will be used to make herbal ointments and herbal tea infusions with Julia.
Together, they bring two complementary perspectives — multi-layered monoprinting and botanical knowledge — forming the foundation of the Wild Botanicals retreat.
This retreat also offers the opportunity to book an hour with Julia for an individual herbal consultation or massage at a special retreat rate.
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