I mentioned before that I was going to make a point of getting out of my studio and out of my own little world more. My first step was taking the plunge to participate in an 8 week workshop on monoprinting at the Atlanta Printmakers Studio. I am sad to report that I have found a new addiction. Karoda mentioned that like quilters, printmakers have their own language, tools and groups. I already knew this from my days as an undergrad. Still, I let myself go into this space knowing that I would be drawn in. Shame on me (not!). Monoprinting is a favorite among many because of its painterly style. Since I love painting this workshop seemed like a match for me. This year I want to explore as many ways to get images on fabric as possible. This process especially includes the unusual and extraordinary. I am experimenting on paper and fabric during this workshop. Right now I am using soy based inks. Next week I will be experimenting with water-based inks and procion dye. I have a batch of sodium alginate setting up right now. Here are some samples of my work on paper. Used the soy based ink and Utrecht’s American Masters printmaking paper. The images are drawings I did for my next several exploration quilts based on LOVE. I obviously need to keep working but I am proud of my first efforts. I see the potential of new and exciting things to come. I have plans to go back in to two of these images and do a little watercolor to bring out the images more. What I like about this method of trace monotype is the interesting line that you can get.
With this image I tried drawing in the ink with odorless mineral spirits. Kind of creepy but I kind of like it.
The lovers remind me of sculpture (but that’s an entirely new hat to wear).
I had signed up for a one day workshop on printmaking for the end of the month and then received notice that it was rescheduled for a day when I will not be here. But cross your fingers, throw chicken bones, and send up prayers…hopefully I’ll end up sharing some studio space with the printmaker.
Hello Deborah
I really like the look of this image and I can “feel” your enthusiasm and excitment with all the possibilities for monoprint. I also love the huge range of possibilities within printmaking.
Thanks for your post about the gum arabic photocopy transfer method
I will give it a go.
best wishes
Aine
I very much like the monoprints with the couples. I’ve wanted to try monoprinting, but that’s a technique I have not tried yet.