Monoprints: Multiple Masks

Single colour, first press, cartridge paper

I decided to work on a second set of monoprints using the same colour scheme, but this time incorporating 3 separate masks placed together in a single composition.  The masks were again created from photocopies of photographs taken at the photoshoot.  I found that the copier paper was so lightweight that when the ink roller was pushed over the masked page the masks stuck to the roller, making a second impression as the roller moved up the page - unexpected, but gave a new element to the composition.

Second colour, cartridge paper

Second press, magazine paper

I have found that re-using the same printing plate and building up layers of ink and masking is producing some interesting results in the mixing of colours, the way that the colours adhere to the surface of the paper and the textures picked up from a combination of the plate, the roller and the different papers used.

Third press, magazine paper

Re-inked with first colour, cartridge paper

I think this is one of the most successful prints from this run in connection with the theme of presence and absence.  By this point I had built up a number of layers of ink and masking which created a series of ghost images which are only just discernable.  Furthermore the composition inadvertently changed when the masks moved with the roller as the plate was inked to give a partial figure and the appearance that the two profiles are looking at the figure above them.

Detail

Detail

Re-inked with second colour, cartridge paper

Re-inked with second colour, cartridge paper

I continued throughout the run using the same plate, re-inking with the two colours, which this time began to mix to produce a secondary purple as well as various tints and tones of the original colours.

Detail

Detail

Printing plate

I think the plate itself gave one of the most successful images, clearly showing the build up of layers of masking, ghost images, changes in composition and colour mixing.  I have printed a copy of this photograph and also created positive and negative versions on acetate, all of which I will use in development works such as painting and collage.

Second press, magazine paper

Detail

I think that monoprinting is producing imagery which is particularly relevant to my theme and is therefore something I will continue to pursue in the development of the project.

Final press