Printmaking

   ;~ by Beverly Koski

Various practices and techniques of printmaking have been integral to the development of the Arts and to the general enlightenment of civilization since very early times. This is indicated by the example of a rubbing produced in the sixth century from the surface of a Chinese Cave Temple. In more modern times, Eduard Munch, famous for "The Scream", spent a great part of his artistic life producing hand rolled prints. From that time to the present day, in our over saturated, picture environment, printmaking remains a unique form of artistic exploration exhibiting cutting edge creativity.

Perhaps, it is important to state at the outset that a print in not a reproduction! Unfortunately for printmakers the word "print" has been absorbed into the English language to mean something quite different than its original definition, which was known as a process for creating an image on a ground which had been cut or formed by a variety of methods. The ground would then be inked, a paper applied and the whole run through a press or indeed pressure of one’s hand if appropriate to the technique. Several of an edition can be produced from the incised or built up ground, but each is unique because there will be some variation from the rolling of the ink and the pressure applied.

The word print today is used loosely for an extensive range of copying including perhaps, the simplest, taking a photograph of an original work of art.

Recently, the writer has become absorbed in gelatine printmaking. Use of a press is not required. The ground or plate in this case is made from ordinary, household cooking gelatine! The mixture of gelatine and hot water (to dissolve the gelatine) can be poured into a styrafoam meat tray. Once set, it is cut from the tray, the ground is inked and a variety of methods can be employed to create the image(s); e.g. stencils can be placed and removed, the gelatine can be cut into and replaced, one can remove some of the ink by drawing with a Q-tip. The original ink can be sponged off and another colour applied. Paper laid on during production, can be pressed/rubbed by hand and replaced to receive a changed image. Experimentation lends excitement to the process. The finished result is always a monotype print.

The Cowichan Valley is fortunate to be home to a very active printmaking group known as POG. Its members meet regularly and explore their craft with affection and passion.

Newcomers are welcome.

  ~ Beverly J. Koski, Duncan, B.C. May, 2008