When one thinks of printing we usually think of etchings, aquatints or lithographs that require specialized equipment, hazardous chemicals and most importantly a press. However there are many techniques that can be done simply, quickly and are great fun. Artist Lynn Norris from the U.K shows how you can take the mystery out of printing and produce lovely work. This demonstration is accessible to everyone; pressing is done with the hand and uses paint rather than inks.
Lynn sent us the following demonstration to share with our Chroma viewers:
Equipment
1. You will need Atelier Interactive Acrylics, a couple of acrylic brushes, Atelier Interactive spray mist with water, Palette, water spray, some kitchen towel or tissue and an orange stick or twig.
2. You will also require a piece of hot press water colour paper and a shiny surface to mono print off. This can be done on glass, perspex or plastic. I created mine by laminating a piece of white card and masking a taped square on the card as a guide to where I would paint.
Process
3. Apply the paint onto the shiny surface, create interesting brush marks, this is what makes an interesting print, apply the paint quite thickly to cover the surface. If you apply less thickly you will see different affects with the paint, it will be a lot more transparent on the print.
4. Use the tissue and stick to create marks in the paint, the tissue and stick can be dampened to lift off paint or blend.You can also over paint areas to create more texture, I’ve done this with the coastal area in the distance.
5. When you are ready to print, remove the masking tape guide, this will give you a nice clean edge. Then lightly spritz the paint with the water spray. You want a very fine mist coating over all the paint to reactivate any which may be drying.
7. Apply the paper directly over the top of the paint being careful not to move the paper once applied, (otherwise this will create a smudging). Using the bottom part of your palm where you thumb meets your hand, apply a firm pressure and use circular motions to go over all of the painting, take your time and hold the print and paper with your other hand to steady everything.
8. Peel your completed print off the mono printing surface. Peel carefully and gradually, taking a little peek as you go. If not enough paint has transferred, carefully place the corner back and apply more pressure. This takes practice so don’t be disheartened if it does not go right straight away.
Lynn has her own website at www.lynnnorris.co.uk
or Contact Lynn at lynn.norris@talktalk.net
