Even when I see shapes and shadows and try to capture the energy with my camera, sometimes it does not translate.
I have learned to let go of that gap and do what I can with what I have.
Maybe the experience in the present moment is all I will get. Maybe my job is to help other have those experiences. Hmmmm?
That is why I love to teach gelatin printmaking to folks from all over the world. If you would like to experience the joys of printmaking without a press then check out the current online workshops.
Today I tested some stencils and played with colors that I usually don’t like.
I made a bunch of ugly prints. But then I had the idea to over print the prints with my favorite color and favorite stencil to see if I could save any of the ugly prints.
Yesterday I made a small gelatin and water printing plate. The plate was about 3/4″ inch thick and in a 5″ x 7″ acrylic box. That is kind of thick.
When I pried it out of the box frame the underside cracked a bit. That is not the end of the plate. I could still print with it.
So I just cut up the plate, put it into a glass measuring cup and microwaved it for a couple of minutes.
The glass measuring cup is great because it makes it very easy to pour the gelatin into the pan, no dribbly mess.
Then to make the gelatin plate a bit thinner, I poured the melted mixture into a bigger pan. This will make it easier to get out of the pan. And then hopefully this simple gelatin and water plate will not crack.
If you would like to explore gelatin printmaking, then join us in Make Monotypes, the online printmaking course. Read the details on the workshop page.
Measure 1 1/2 cups of tepid water into a bowl or measuring cup. Then sprinkle the gelatin on top of the water and let is bloom or 5 minutes or so.
Then gently stab or pat the applesauce like mixture to blend in all the water.
Then slowly microwave the mixture for 2 or 3 minutes. Watch the microwave. You don’t want to boil over. That would be a mess!!!
If you don’t use a microwave then build a double boiler situation and slowly melt the gelatin mixture until it is fluid and no longer applesauce like.
Then spoon off any foam into the trash. Not down the sink- it could cause the drain to clog.
I then pour the mixture through cheese cloth and into the container, on a level surface. Leave in place until it has hardened. DO NOT try to move the container of liquid. Spills are not fun to clean up.
Always pay attention to where the gelatin is going. You don’t want it to dribble all over the counter. It is tough to clean up.
When the plate if firmed up, I like to put it into the refrigerator or a few hours or over night. Then it is easier to get out of the container without tearing.
Now this gelatin and water printing plate will last about a week, before it starts to rip or mold. I do recommend that you keep this simple gelatin and water plate in the refrigerator when you are not using it.
If you find that you love the printing process, then you will probably want to make a gelatin, glycerin and water plate. You can get the FREE instructions for that plate here.
It is interesting to listen to what motivates and inspires other artists. Even if they approach art and communication in ways that are vey different from the way you think and make.
I say be inspired and let go of what is not a match for you.
I have been wanting to do something on my woods and beach walks. And now I have a renewed sense of ability to respond to my surrounding.
