The first linocut project in printing class is complete. I am loving this printmaking adventure. Finally a class that encourages playing. The classes go so fast. I can totally caught up with the project in this class. The weekly six hour class is over in a flash.
I had originally done a figurative sketch shown in my previous post. After getting a understanding of the linocut and the chine-collé process, I tried to get the sketch to a place where I could get resolved with the sketch. It was hard to abandon that sketch but it did not feel right. The sketch isn’t abandoned, it just needs the right project. I decided to go with something a little more organic. More and more, I find myself turning to organic subject matter for my artwork and class projects.
After deciding on the design it had to be transferred to the linoleum tile to prepare for the carving of the block. That was the easy part. The next step was to carve the block. I think I underestimated the patience, time, and skill needed to carve the block. This design was very challenging. The jellyfish tendrils were especially challenging. I am still not sure how I managed to stab the same finger in the same place every single time. Just when I thought I had a handle on the carving of the block, there what another slip! And another gouge in my finger, well not another one just a deeper one. About half way through I realized how challenging this design really was. Even though it was difficult I learned a lot about carving a lino-block.
The first print runs were straight prints with oil-based inks. The block were inked and ran through a printing press. I had some good results. We made a small edition. Good results for my first prints. The registration was slightly off but not too bad.
This was such a fun project. Learned a lot. How to cut, use the press, how important the registration is. I feel so at home when I’m at the press. I’ve been trying to figure out how I can fin room for a press in the house….haha.
Daylene Horn Art 