Another Print "Sketch"

This 4" X 6" print was created with an ImagOn plate and includes a relief printed texture, watercolor and cotton thread. The image was assembled in Photo Shop using some of my personal photos and scanned lace. I'll call this one "Cradle II". (I like the play on words.)

During my studio spring cleaning, I came across an antique relief woodblock that I had picked up on my travels; probably used to print fabric. I wanted to use an off-set again so I inked up the block and printed it on a sheet of acetate. This allowed me to use the acetate image to apply a second color ink to the intaglio inked main plate.
I like the effect of the relief block over the intaglio plate.

Small Prints

I've been playing around with images for small prints suitable for exchange projects. I was hoping to send a few pieces off to the BIMPE (6th Biennial International Miniature Print Exhibition) but as usual, I may not meet the mailing deadline.

I'm forging ahead anyway with the idea that these small works will be "sketches" for larger prints. I can easily experiment with images, plate development, inks and layering and work out ideas before moving on to larger plates.



This piece measures 4" X 4.5" and was created with an ImagOn plate inked & wiped as an intaglio in light blue gray. I printed a rubber stamp directly on the plate before printing to create an off-set bull's eye. The second plate is a Solarplate; inked as a relief and printed over the first.



Turbulence

Fabulous Flat Files

Spring cleaning is underway in the studio. It's amazing how quickly things begin to pile up and before you know it there are so many stacks of paper and prints laying around that you can't fine what you're looking for. So I decided to go on a mission to see if I could solve my print storage problems.

Everyone I spoke to said that flat files were the way to go. However, after a little on line research I was convinced that I was out of luck; the price of a new flat file was over $800 for one 5 drawer unit! I was beginning to consider other storage alternatives when someone suggested craig's list.

After a quick search on craig's list, I found just what I was looking for. Less than 2 hours away in Massachusetts, was a Stacore unit in great condition, with a base, for only $400. My husband and I picked it up yesterday and it is now sitting in the studio ready to be filled. Sometimes lady luck is on your side!

Spring Fever

Spring is a time for new beginnings and I enthusiastically welcome the opportunity for a fresh start. After traveling and being away from the studio for few weeks, I'm more than ready to tackle new projects. In fact I have so many ideas running through my head that I'm experiencing a creative brain freeze! My plan for the week is to get organized; review the options I have for upcoming shows and exchanges, track due dates and set some REALISTIC goals. With any luck, I'll have a couple of pieces underway by the end of the week

As the old Irish Proverb reminds us, "If you do not sow in the spring you will not reap in the autumn."