Pushing the Boundaries: Clare Cosens (Episode 11)

Written ByCJLANTIER

14 October, 2025

Summary:

In today’s episode, I’m lucky to talk about gel printing with Clare Cosens, a printmaker and mixed media artist, who shares her journey from graphic design to gel printing and teaching. Clare discusses her artistic influences, techniques, and the challenges she faces in her creative process. She emphasizes the importance of experimentation and understanding materials in printmaking. Clare also talks about her teaching experiences and the new course she offers, ‘Pushing the Boundaries,’ aimed at helping artists advance their gel printing skills.

**********

Show Notes via Email

Sign up to get one (two if we have a bonus episode) email per week from Beyond the Brayer with full show notes for your convenience. Subscribe here.

**********

Watch on YouTube     

Please subscribe so you can watch our weekly – and occasional bonus episodes.

**********

Join Our Community

Join the Gel Print Enthusiasts group on Facebook to talk about gel printing and the podcast.

**********

Support the Show

If you’re enjoying Beyond the Brayer, please consider buying me a “cup of coffee.” All coffee fees go toward upgrading either equipment or software.

We’d also appreciate a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podchaser.com.

**********

Reach Out:

Links from the Show:

York Minster

Rex Ray Video

Jane Faase

Pushing the Boundaries

Clare’s Newsletter

Clare’s Links:

YouTube

Instagram

Facebook

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Clare Cosens and Her Art Journey

02:40 Transitioning to Gel Printing and Teaching

05:22 Exploring Printmaking Techniques and Styles

08:14 Inspiration and Sources for Printmaking

11:10 Influence of Rex Ray and Artistic Aha Moments

14:13 Challenges in Gel Printing Techniques

16:55 Advice for Beginners in Gel Printing

20:01 The Pushing the Boundaries Course and Future Plans

Key Takeaways:

  • Clare Cosens has a rich background in graphic design and printmaking.
  • Her transition to gel printing was driven by the need for flexibility as a parent.
  • Clare’s artistic style is heavily influenced by nature and botanical themes.
  • She enjoys experimenting with various printmaking techniques and materials.
  • Teaching has become a significant part of her career, allowing her to share her passion.
  • Clare emphasizes the importance of understanding materials and their properties in printmaking.
  • She encourages beginners to play and experiment rather than invest heavily in supplies.
  • The ‘Pushing the Boundaries’ course is designed for those with a solid understanding of gel printing.
  • Clare’s YouTube channel is a new venture aimed at sharing her techniques and insights.
  • She believes that the opaque and transparent qualities of paint are often misunderstood in gel printing.

If you enjoyed this episode, We’d appreciate a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podchaser.com. This helps other people find the podcast. If you’re into gel printing, please join the Gel Print Enthusiasts group on Facebook. If you’re not on Facebook, follow Beyond the Brayer on Instagram for podcast news and more!

You May Also Like…