mixed media printmaking

Probably the most important “tool” that we will be using in the online mixed media retreat is the gift of time.

Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay

And with the gift of time to explore mark making and book making, I am hoping that you will access a new visual language and jump start your art practice for 2020.

We will be using simple tools that you probably already have in your studio.

1. Your walking shoes – we will start the day with a walk to fill the well and free the mind. I always go for a walk when I need a break from the studio. And I generally find treasure and inspiration on the way.
2. A note book – writing, journaling and doodling are daily practices that feed your mark making habits, so let’s do it!
3. Phone or camera is great for quick image capture and documentation
4. Paper and prints that you already have will be worked into new forms. It is good if they are not so precious, but have some meaning to you.
5. Scissors, glue and thread for reshaping and combining materials.
6. Rusty things can be collected and used to distress paper in uncontrollable ways
7. Matches and flames are another surprising way to manipulate prints into new forms
8. Crayons are a wonderfully primitive way to layer rubbings and give new focus
9. Clothespins and clips are great for separating wet pages while they dry.
10. Gesso or white latex or acrylic paint can give any surface a fresh start

Class starts soon. Read all the details and join us. It will be a great way to jump start your art practice.

The idea of the class is to gather what you have and reshape your papers into new book forms and consider adding non-traditional marks to tell a new story.

Today, I found these rubbing plates at the Dollar Tree Store.

I brought them back to the studio and started to play.  There were 3 different flower plates. I like how one of the designs prints up.

I played with using both sides of the plate to see what different types of details and impressions would result.

Then I tested out a crayon to make line drawings.

It was a bit chaotic, all the over printing. So I simplified the background and let the line drawing be the focus.

The take away from my process was:

1. Play
2. think it = try it
3. let go of the things I do not like
4. work parts of the plate
5. leave open or quiet space
6. simplify
7. allow a focus

I invite you to try those 7 steps in your next printing session! Enjoy.

If you want to print and play with me and gelatin printmaking in the new year, then join us in Make Monotypes, 4 week online gelatin printing class. READ the details on the workshop page.

Printmaking without a Press Artist’s Demonstration

• Linda Germain, mixed media printmaker
• Haverhill Art Market
• 90 Washington St
• June 18th 12 to 5

Printmaking without a press how is that possible? Actually you are probably very familiar with some printmaking techniques that do not require a press.

Screen printing – everyone has a screen printed t-shirt.

Rubber stamping – This process has be come very familiar to crafters and scrapbooking enthusiasts.

Stenciling – is common. Most of us have seen or used alphabet stencils to make a poster.

A less common process is monotype printing. You will have to come to the Market to see this one!

Come by the Haverhill Artist Market and ask questions, watch demo and maybe even try out one or more of these printmaking without a press techniques.

I will have the tools that I use to make my mixed media prints available and will be giving demos through out the day.

One of my goals is to demystify printmaking and help to make it accessible to everyone. Hope to see you at the Art Market next week.