Part 2: Project 7: Multi- Block Print: Conclusion

I feel that the above image conveys my intention to represent the feeling of isolation we are all experiencing right now due to COVID restrictions. Even my mistake of cutting in the wrong direction on the 4th lino plate has had the effect of an overgrown area around the tiled floor behind the benches. This hints at a gradual deterioration of environment. I had felt the need to create a 4th plate in order to lend definition to the benches, which had been lacking in previous prints using plates 1-3.

I used the following image as a starting point for this scene, it is a lonely spot at the best of times. But out-of-season during COVID appears to be so desolate a place. I was very pleased to have noticed this spot and captured it from this particular angle.

I was inspired by the minimalism of artists such as Paul Catherall with his prints of recognizable buildings such as Tate Modern, for example. I feel that his ability to simplify images down to their essential components holds the key to creating impactful outcomes. I feel I could have benefitted from working my “Bottle Alley” print on a larger scale. The effect of multiple layers has tended to confuse the image (A5) at these dimensions.

I shall be submitting the following for task 3 of Assignment 2. These prints for Project 7 were concluded over the weekend, ever mindful of my self-imposed deadline of this wednesday to submit, or at least to post my portfolio.

I have not made a print using all 4 plates as this would be confusing and lacking in contrast and therefore reducing impact. Instead I have included the following:

Most of the above prints were created with oil based ink on Hosho paper and were hand- burnished using a cheap plastic baren from a speedball kit. I have found this to be the best method for pressing, so far at least. Registration was achieved using a purpose – built jig.

This project has been an enjoyable challenge, if a bit tricky due to my inexperience and my choice of scale. I chose this due to the plates I had that were multiples of exactly the same size. I did not wish to mess about cutting down larger lino pieces and risk having them be misaligned due to inaccurate trimming etc.

I intend to go on to the next part of the Printmaking module having learned much of use from this exercise.