Linocuts
I find linocutting to be a very expressive process, allowing me to experiment with different cutting marks, influenced by the subject matter. When printing, the block oftentimes transfers a few incidental traces of ink to the paper; these nuances are a characteristic reminder of the process. The resulting prints are illustrative and full of rich, descriptive marks.
My passion for printmaking comes from its ability to entice and enthral; allowing me to explore and experiment with an array of different textures and colour variations. The anticipation as I pull back the blankets to reveal the first layer is intense and the print of which I’m introduced is something that never ceases to surprise and delight.
Collagraphs
In the studio, my collagraph plates materialise from card, carved into and applied with carborundum grit and various media to create surface texture. The plates are sealed using button polish, resulting in a lustrous, ochre plate.
I ink my plates using the intaglio method before running them through the printing press to transfer the ink from plate to paper. Frequently, I print onto textured paper, prepared by applying gesso and washes of acrylic to the paper prior to printing. This method adds interest as subtle splashes of paint appear under thin layers of ink. These unique prints, are very diverse due to my intuitive and experimental approach to producing each one.
Paintings
When painting, I like the immediacy at which I work, painting swiftly to replicate the colours of the fleeting landscape; contributing a sense of energy to the painting. I use acrylics for their smooth consistency, fearless opacity and overall workability. Drying quickly, they allow me to bestow on my work a variety of paint applications.
If you are intrigued to learn more about my art processes, you may enjoy reading my blog posts that cover these in more detail.