Students Gain Inspiring Experience at Mizdruk

Two BA Design Practice students from City of Glasgow College, Phoebe McArthur, and Georgia Porteous, recently returned from an inspiring creative journey in Helmond, Netherlands, where they embraced new letterpress printing techniques, new perspectives, and the beauty of imperfection at the renowned print studio Mizdruk.

After completing her HND in Applied Arts, Phoebe was drawn to the BA Design Practice course for its hands-on approach and focus on pushing creative boundaries.

"It felt like the right next step to prepare me for my future career," she explains.

When it came to choosing a placement, Phoebe was eager to challenge her tendency to over-plan and sought out Mizdruk—a studio known for its playful, experimental approach to letter press printmaking. Mizdruk, run by letterpress printing specialist Jan-Willem, encourages artists to 'Ink it, don’t think it,' celebrating mistakes as creative opportunities.

"This was a challenge for me," Phoebe admits. "But visiting Mizdruk was an eye-opening experience. It helped me embrace the unexpected and loosen up my process—something that will stay with me long after college."

Working on both letterpress and large-scale silkscreen printing, Phoebe created personal pieces she’ll treasure forever, supported by Jan-Willem’s warm, encouraging guidance.

"Learning from Jan-Willem has inspired me not to restrict myself or fixate on perfection. It’s changed me not just as a designer, but as a person."

Georgia’s creative journey took a few detours before finding its rhythm. After completing her HND in Graphic Design—where she discovered a love for printmaking—she spent a year at Edinburgh Napier but felt disconnected from the digital-heavy focus.

"I really missed the hands-on techniques and creative freedom I enjoyed before," Georgia says. "When I saw a friend’s work from the BA course on Instagram, it reminded me what I was missing. I applied and never looked back."

From the moment international placements were mentioned, Georgia knew she wanted to explore print studios in cities that had inspired her travels—Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Berlin. Having followed Mizdruk’s work on Instagram, she reached out to Jan-Willem, who offered her a placement. She also secured a spot at GWA Amsterdam, giving her the chance to work in two outstanding studios.

"Both studios had incredible letterpress collections," Georgia shares. "At GWA, I also got to try cyanotype printing for the first time, which I loved."

At Mizdruk, Georgia found herself immersed in a studio where creative freedom ruled.

"Jan-Willem’s way of working is so loose and playful—it was refreshing. Plus, being there with Phoebe and Lola made it feel less daunting. Jan was so welcoming, always encouraging us to have fun with the process."

For Georgia, the experience was a turning point.

"Travelling to a new city alone and working in these amazing spaces gave me a new confidence. I learned not to be so precious about my work and to see the beauty in imperfections."

Both students agree that the experience has reshaped their creative practices and outlooks.

"It’s been invaluable," Georgia reflects. "I’d recommend an international internship to any design student—it’s an experience that nurtures creative growth like no other."

Phoebe agrees: "If you get the chance—go for it. You will make memories, meet amazing people, and be inspired by new cultures and ways of working. Mizdruk was unforgettable."

Lola Paterson, BA Design Practice lecturer said:

"The past three days with MIZDRUK have been nothing short of extraordinary creativity in its purest form! A huge thank you for your kindness, generosity, and for giving us all a phenomenal space to unleash our wildest artistic visions. Your creative letterpress studio has been an absolute playground for inspiration, and we could not have asked for a better place to go completely and wonderfully crazy!

“Congratulations to Georgia and Phoebe for successfully implementing an outstanding work placement! This accomplishment highlights their exceptional commitment to the BA Design Practice program and serves as a testament to their dedication and drive.

We extend our immense gratitude to Jan Wilhem Van der Looij, esteemed specialist of Mizdruk, for his invaluable support and the time he invested in establishing a partnership with our BA Design Practice program. His efforts have been instrumental in creating pathways for our students to gain practical experience.

Our degree modules include 40-hour work placements for students in their third and fourth year of the hons program. We are excited to continue building on our partnership with Mizdruk fostering innovative collaborations that enhance our students’ learning and professional growth.”