Etchings || Paintings || Linocuts || Monotypes

What is a Print?

A print is an image that has been transferred (printed) from one matrix such as a wood block, a copper plate, or a lithographic stone to a sheet of paper. However, unlike a painting where one can see how the artist has applied paint by hand to a canvas surface; a finished print does not necessarily reveal the materials an artist has used to create the image. Also, the mechanical processes involved in printing an image often seem to separate the creative act from the final result. In fact, the act of creating a print is a multiple step process, with opportunities for creativity at both the matrix-forming and printing stages.”

 

What Are Examples of Print Types?

Etching - The use of a copper or zinc plate on which to create an image which is later inked and polished.  Damp paper is placed on the plate which is run through an etching press.

Monotype - An image is painted with etching inks onto a matrix, most likely Plexiglas.  Damp paper is placed over the image, and run through an etching press.

Lithography - A planographic or smooth technique.  An image is drawn onto a flat plate or stone.  The undrawn part of the stone is wet; the water will not adhere to the greasy drawing.  Paper is placed over the drawing and it is run through a litho press.