Mixed Media Printmaking Blog

Use what you have – Mark making tools

mark making tools / Linda Germain / November 23, 2020

I love finding tools that make interesting line, patterns and textures.

When used with the gelatin plate and a thin layer of ink, I can make some interesting impressions.

Testing stamping tools

Today I cut up a paper tube into 1/2 inch circles and glued them together to get a stamping tool that creates a delicate fine line.

I can use the tool to stamp into the thin layer of ink on the gelatin plate as in the photo below.

And then when there gets to be a thin layer of ink built up on the end of the tool, I can off print a delicate line style of mark.

I encourage you to explore your recycle bin for new “stamping tools”. If you would like some support in developing mark making skills, then check out the Make Marks + Books, workshop.

This online printmaking class is about embracing a light hearted approach to making many transparent layers, resulting in an artist’s book.

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Space and Time – art making

stamping tools / Linda Germain / November 20, 2020

I have been thinking about space and time these days.

Often open space and grand vistas can create a happy peaceful feeling. I think that is why I am drawn to the ocean’s edge and mountain top views.

But even on a much smaller scale, I use the space of a breath to sigh with relief.

In my printmaking, I do think a lot about the division of space. And I try to create interesting negative space. the open space around objects.

Often it is easy to fill the print with marks and impressions very quickly. And then we struggle to get back some open space.

Quiet, light areas of a print give the eye a place to rest and time for the viewer to add meaning. So if you can leave some open space, your viewers may enjoy your work longer.

Time

I like to do things that make it easy for me to take time to print.

Organize my work bench
And leave supplies out and ready to use
Know that even 20 minutes of mark making supports my practice

If you would like to take some time and explore mark making, while creating space for your viewer, then check out the workshop, MAKE MARKS.

If you think you are too busy, then it may be the perfect time to take this 3 lesson workshop. Taking time to make marks can be a great way to support your mental well being.

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Draw that Tree

inspiration / Linda Germain / November 13, 2020

Have you heard of forest bathing? It is a thing. Check it out.

My daily woods walks give me peace of mind. I often notice a solo tree deep in the woods.

This connection to nature is essential to my well being. Today, I thought let’s try to draw one of those trees that catch my attention.

The challenge was intended to be fun and informative.

I really looked at the tree and tried to capture the way the branches drooped and the spaces between them. I tried pen, charcoal, watercolor and pastels. It was a process of looking and making marks in response to the tree.

I encourage you to try walking in the woods and then draw a tree. Maybe it will inspire your art making process. More inspiring ideas.

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Change Perspective

monotype print / Linda Germain / November 8, 2020

The human eye can choose focus amazingly fast. I walk through the woods/world and see things that inspire me.

Then when I try to take a photo to capture what I see – it is not the same.

But I don’t give up.

I take lots of pictures.
I change the angle.
I get closer.
I wait for better light

I think this persistence pays off with a pleasing picture every so often. This idea can apply to printmaking and other types of mark making.

So I encourage you to be persistent and change your perspective. And eventually the magic will happen.

If you want to explore gelatin printmaking, get the FREE recipe to make the plate and let the fun begin.

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Tyvek® stencil technique can be used to make framed art

masking stencils / Linda Germain / October 27, 2020

I know the upcoming online printmaking class is all about hand printing cards with Tyvek® stencils and the gelatin plate, but you can use the technique to make prints to frame.