What Is An Original Print?
An original print is a work of art conceived and printed by hand on paper by the artist. It is not by any mechanised or digital process. That does not mean an original print cannot contain digital elements - many do. An original art print is NOT a reproduction.
How can I tell the difference between an original and a reproduction print?
If you look closely at the edge of an original art print you should see the indent impression left by the plate. A reproduction will have no indent between the edge of the image to the blank paper surround.
How long does it take to make an original art print?
An original print can take weeks to complete. It all starts with an idea. The idea comes from sketches, photos and mulling over time. There follows the making of the plate which, if it is a collagraph, can take several days, if not weeks, that include proof printing to test how the plate prints, make any adjustments and work out colour palettes. I am ‘getting to know the plate’ in order to get it to print the way I envisage it. The print may also include multiple layers of ink laid one over the other. These may or may not require time to dry in between. Prints are dried flat between blotters, tissue and boards.
What about monotypes?
Whilst monotypes don’t require a permanent matrix, this doesn’t necessarily mean they any quicker to make. My own monotypes include multiple layers of ink. The more layers of ink, the longer one has to wait for the previous layers to dry before adding more.
There is also the matter of experience. If one is new to the medium you can make quite a few prints in one day. An experienced printmaker brings together years of practice, trials and error, successes and failures to make a good print.
I work in monotype and collagraph media, often bringing the two media together in one print. My prints draw on my 20+ years of experience. From concept to final execution my prints can take several months to reach fruition.