Reduction linocut - first colour....

Ok, so there's not much to see after the first printing, but that's just the way it should be. My image is made up of 6 tones, so it was important to get the first one a really light shade.  I've managed to create a lighter shade in this layer by lightly hatching the lino with a fine cutting tool.  You can see the lino here.

I've recut my lino for tomorrow night's class. Stay tuned for the results.

The Bell Jar....

Some super lovely friends of mine have just launched their print studio - The Bell Jar.  I can not begin to explain how incredibly talented and creative Elly Joel and Kylie Thévenau are.  They create breath-taking surface pattern and textile design for fashion and interiors and I have no doubt you'll see their work in your daily life before long.

Reduction linocut....

I've been a bit unwell so have missed the last few printmaking classes, but it's good to be back!  Thankfully I don't seem to have missed too much, and am optimistic that I can catch up with my reduction linocut.  Above is my first layer, ready to print.  I REALLY want to cut the second colour, but as the name suggests, the lino is cut (reduced) between colours so until I print, I can't do anything (and I can't print until Thursday).  Sorry if my explanation of reduction linocuts is a bit light - google it for more information!

One thing I've learnt from doing these classes, is that printmakers are completely under appreciated!  The simplest looking prints can be extremely complex to produce.  

Baudin....

Really?!  A month since I last posted?!  Where does the time go....  I have my excuses, but I'll spare you as they're really lame.

So finally, here is the linocut of which I showed you a few snippets.  Of course I'm not totally happy with it, but I am really good at picking faults in what I do.  (Like this photo - great forehead reflection!!).  

The slightly exciting thing is that 'Baudin' is currently hanging in the Margaret River Cultural Centre as part of an exhibition in conjunction with the Readers and Writers Festival.  My first exhibition - I'd be more excited if I like the piece, or if I thought it was a good representation of my style (which it definitely is not).  Anyhoo, that's enough of trashing my own work for one night.  :)

*Nicolas Baudin was a French explorer who mapped much of the coast of Australia, particularly the west coast.  Where I live.