Tangled up in the world of monotypes! A term not frequently heard, monotypes are distinct prints from a single image painted on a plate or inked which more often than not, forms the basis of mesmerizing and distinct artwork.
I still remember that one art gallery where i first found this art, it stood out in a mono exhibition, a youthful feeling swept over me as if I were looking at a Canadian sunset over a lake, a dabbing style print, an artist was xplaining how each piece xplained a different aesthetic,at first i was skeptical but then became a connoisseur of this craft.
What, then, takes monotypes to the new heights? For one thing, the anticipation of the process is exhilarating! Unlike other modes of print making where there are numerous replicates of a design, monotype is a unique piece that is produced once by an artist’s whim. It is that sensation of knowing that your artwork cannot be precisely replicated, forever preserving a single moment that is all its purpose.
So, this article will touch all the aspects about creating wonderful monotyped, ps there is something for people of all levels, be it novice or pro, the tips, technique and materials essential.
Monotype Printing Techniques
Let us take a closer look at what is meant by monotype printing. Monotype printing is essentially done by putting ink or paint on a flat surface, which is usually a metal or acrylic plate, and then doing a rub on a piece of paper. Now, The difference with this is that in contrast to print making, only one print can be taken from the design image.
And this is the part that most people would probably find interesting. The history of monotypes is believed to have originated in the 17th century, when Giovanni Battista Piranesi used this process to create delicate images. Since then, monotype printing has gone through many changes, including the acceptance of artists such as Edgar Degas and Henri Matisse who exploited its expressive possibilities. It has thus endured for centuries, enchanting artists and art enthusiasts alike.
Now, for the different types of monotypes techniques, here are some fun ones to try out:
Direct Monotype- This is the transfer of a painted or inked plate onto a piece of paper. Its free flowing and allows for spontaneity.
Transfer Monotype: In this case, you are able to draw or paint an image on a piece of paper guiding the use of a press to transfer the image on another sheet. With this technique, great results can be obtained as well and quite a lot of fun can be had!
Lift Technique: This technique shows how a plate is inked, follow by an application of various materials in order to partially remove some of the ink, thereby forming textures and patterns. Unquestionably, it is a wonderful means of making different kind of alterations.
Every technique is unique and promises to extend the boundaries of your creativity in novel ways.
The Materials You Need
Since you’re inspired by the techniques, we can also discuss the materials that will be required to make monotypes of great quality. First of all, if you are a beginner, you will need a printing press or a simple baren for hand-pressing. My first press was a pretty old machine that I picked up at a garage sale and I had to spend time cleaning it all up, but it became my go-to equipment in the studio.
The quality of inks you choose should also be looked after, it could be either oil based or water based but the choice is up to you. For me, I have been using water based inks at first as they are easier to clean but I later moved towards oil based inks that gave some more richness to my prints.
The paper you select is also just as important. Ensure that the paper is smooth and heavy weight so that it can balance the prints. I have tried a variety of papers, but I prefer the one that does not cause the print to be distorted after being saturated with ink.
Selecting the correct materials is a key step in ensuring amazing results are produced. There is usually a lot of back and forth in the selection process but remember to take it easy! Ordering things based on what suits you the most, that in itself is an adventure.
Picking the Correct Kind of Inks
When it comes to choosing inks, you have a few options at your disposal. Oil based inks are known to be very bright in color and long lasting. They have a thick texture which makes it easy to work with and due to the slow drying nature, you have more time to play around with inks.
At the same time, however, there are also water-based inks that are easier to use and clean up. These inks dry instantly, which is an advantage for some and a disadvantage for others. I had a few issues myself at the beginning of my painting – trying to mix after the ink had already set!
And about mixing colors, this is the place for wonders to happen! Mixing colors takes your creativity towards brighter and dynamic color liquids or hues which completely enhances your monotypes prints. A while back, I painted one using an amalgamation of blues and greens and it gave the print a beautiful deep blue ocean feel. Make sure to keep a notebook close to you with your favorite mixes as you cannot tell when you might fancy making that perfect color again!
Setting Up Your Space
Monotype printing largely relies on these basic setups to trigger a user’s creativity. I make sure my space has enough light pouring in and is also properly arranged. Such an orderly and clean environment encourages one’s creative side and makes the printing much more efficient.
Employ the services of a skilled general contractor to build a large table where you can spread out your materials. I have found that inking, papers, and tools being right above one’s head can ensure the flow is kept up. Besides, coloring one’s workspace with pretty art supplies and even plants – all of these can make you feel better!
It is indispensable to feel relaxed as well. Check how ergonomic your chair is and if possible, play for some background radio or a podcast. Listening to soft instrumental music usually helps me focus and immerse myself into the creative work.
The Steps Involved In The Monotype Process
Working on paintings or prints can be downright frustrating at times. Things like being too careful to avoid ruining your base canvas or plate can be a true creativity killer. But with the monotype technique, all of these worries simply evaporate into thin air. It’s all about having fun and experimenting with creative and original designs. Let’s break it down:
Step 1: Getting the Plate Ready
The first step for making a lovely monotype requires you to prepare your plate. Be it glass, metal, or even acrylic make sure that you wipe them down with a soft cloth, alcohol or rubbing soap to make it debris and dust free. Trust me, despite being a little time consuming, this step is worth it. For example, I am meticulous about keeping my plates clean which in the long run saves me so much time.
After the plate has been cleaned up, you may want to consider applying ink. I want you to think of a particular design that defines you the most, this is your time to shine. Usually I begin sketching inside with my notepad as the plate is ready, its all about setting the scene for what is up next.
Step Two: The Application Of Ink
Depending on the design and technique used this can be done by either using fingers for a more sensual touch or a brayer. And Yes! this is my favorite part as well, the application of ink!
One night, I felt a little on the wild side and decided to take a bright yellow ink and pour it directly on the plate with my fingers. It was quite nice to smear the colors without a tool being involved, but if more precision is desired, a brayer can be used to coat the piece evenly.
One crucial tip, do not hesitate to play around with the amount of ink used. An excess of ink will leave you with a polluted print, while an insufficient amount will leave your design barely visible. Before committing completely to a final print, I typically practice on a waste sheet.
Let’s proceed to Step 3: Creating Your Design
This is when your imagination starts dramatically coming to life! This is usually legitimately all artwork, animation or even stencils. It is more of doing things in the spur of the moment on the plate that has already been inked.
Some of my best moments emerged while attempting to design something that completely backfired. For instance, a floral design I was attempting caught the ink’s smudge and what came out was an abstract design that wasn’t intended. To my astonishment, it became one of my very favorites!’ To some of you, this may seem absurd and hilarious but here’s another tip: go with the unexpected! Monotypes are all about capturing an essence and sometimes you just want to go with the moment rather than being too detail-oriented and set on a precise plan.
Now, this step is lays down the complete wait and watch scene. Here, you carefully place a prepared plate on a blank canvas which is paper. However, if you have a printing press, follow that specific machine’s guidelines in relation to how much pressure you need. If you decide to go the hand-press route though, you’ll need a baren or your hands to apply some form of even pressure.
Initially when I started to transfer over my designs over, I was pretty much on the edge, endlessly waiting to elevate the paper from the print and learning how to keep it there without making any mess. There’s a certain charm to lifting the paper off the plate and viewing your work, let me put it this way as an artist or a designer, there’s an enchanting feeling to seeing something that was previously only in your head.
This is important, make sure to pull the paper off gently: it’s like teasing out a Snickers bar from a cup of coffee. Each time glancing into what’s hidden can be pretty exciting especially when you start to notice little intricate details in your print, the warm tone of orange and brown it is shocking how the shades start to blend in.
I recall being taken aback when once when I complemented the fusion of all the colors in the texture while pulling up a print. Each piece is unique and it’s this grandeur of knowledge which monotype printing has to offer which captivates me.
Monotypes are a great way to create beautiful images, let me give you a few practical tips.
Keep It Easy: When you are just into starting out with monotypes, keep the colors and shapes basic. This way once you build confidence, you can work with even more detailed designs.
Don’t Overthink It: The charm of monotypes is their arbitrary nature, so give the unconventional a shot. You could work with different colors (which you’d think wouldn’t go well) or even use planar material, such as leaves, which would allow you to form great organic textures,
Learn from Others: Seek out artists pursuing a monotype painting. I have always been in awe of Kiki Smith’s works who has talented engravings because in her works the heaven sentiment and sheer artistry come together. Look at what they do and allow yourself to be entranced by their approach!
Accept Mistakes: Not every print unattached will be perfect and that is completely understandable. Some of my works I appreciate the most came from what could be termed as ‘errors’ on the ground of the resulting unsought for beauty.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
You may face some snags while printing just like in the other artistic endeavors. Here are a few common problems and their solutions:
Issue: Ink is Extremely Dry Or Ink Too Watery
SolutionFor ink that is too dry, add a bit of linseed oil or medium so that it becomes wet. Whereas for watery ink, place more paint onto the plate or use more weight during the transfer.
Issue: Prints are a Bit Dim
SolutionThis is generally an indicator of insufficient ink or less weight applied during the transfer, so no be afraid of using more ink on the plate!
Issue: Blurred or Smudgy Pictures
SolutionThis may be caused by any unnecessary motion of the plate or paper during the transfer which should not occur. So before placing the paper carefully push down and don’t jab it but softly peel it from the plate to eliminate this problem.
## Showcasing Monotypes
After all your hard work, the finishing step is showcasing your monotypes. Monotypes can be presented and preserved as shown in the list below:
### Framing:
Monotypes require a touch from the frame so that the artwork is good to go. Make sure to select the frames that will suit best the colors and the style of the art. I personally like to use a frame that is made out of natural wood because it has a tender feeling, although, metallic would work too if you want something modern.
### Displaying:
You may try to hang your series of monotype on your wall and make it into a gallery, either in your house or your studio. This would spice up your room and also be a way to show off to your family and friends.
### Community Sharing:
And now most importantly, make sure you also share your work with the community! Go for local art faires or sell your works on instagram. I’ve met so many fascinating artists or art lovers by sharing my works through the internet. It’s amazing how art pulled people together.
Telling your story and showcasing artwork not only makes you better but also in turn, motivates others to create. Never forget that every artist starts out small, and your monotypes may someday motivate someone to grab a brayer and get going!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best paper for monotype printing?
Regarding the choice of paper for monotype printing, I can say without the slightest shadow of a doubt that the most absorbent type is the one that must be selected. My preferred paper usually is Arches Cover or Rives BFK as they have a nice feel to them and are great for ink as they do not distort. I recall my initial attempts with just about any paper, including ordinary photocopying paper; and thought that it wouldn’t make a difference to the finished product. Let’s just say the results were disappointing! The kind of paper I was using absorbed excessive amounts of ink thus giving the printed works a greyish dull look. And all the money spent on the printmaking paper was in vain because with printmaking paper everything is possible bright colors, thick outlines and clean lines.
Is it possible to do monotypes with paint instead of ink?
If you are thinking of applying acrylic paint that you have on hand, for monotypes it is recommended to refrain from doing so. The use of ordinary paint might be an option, but such a choice can significantly change the working methods due to the different thickness and the different times it takes to pack. I recall trying to use acrylic paint, I didn’t print the ink wondering if it would be alright. The only problem was that it was too late drying for the plate, so I added some rather blurry prints. Instead, you can try water-soluble and even acrylic inks produced for printing purposes. These have the required flow coupled with the desired operability you wish for exquisite monotypes.
How to Maintain Cleanliness of your Equipment after Printing?
Cleaning of the tools and the materials after a session may be as important to the process as the printing itself. Plate, rollers and cleaning of the tools should be done with the use of gentle solvent or mineral spirits. I dump my brayers and tools into a various small dish containing the solvent after the job, as it makes the job of cleaning up everything much easier. Make sure to have cleaned up your workspace – after all, if the area is packed properly, there are better chances of building ideas the next time. It took me quite some time to figure out why there were ink stains all over my body – it was a ‘Do It Yourself Art’ project in my eyes!
Who are the Artists who a Well Known for their Monotypes?
Several artists have accepted and created some remarkable pieces with Monotypes over the past few years. One of my favorites of his is Edgar Degas’s monotypes, with a single aerial view of ballet dancers in the air showing a lot of movement in graceful positions. Kiki Smith is another one whose style of Print Making is outsider. I have to admit, artists using the monotype process encourages other artists to interpret the process differently. These days, I find that these artists inspire me because they motivate me to take risks in my own art.
When I know my Monotype is complete, what do I need to do?
Completing a monotype can be a bit difficult to determine based on what you see. In my case, I depend solely on my instincts. Most people will feel it is complete when they are satisfied by the image. Other times, I prefer taking a break and coming back to it after a few minutes, so I can see whether it stands out or needs finer details. Also, if you find yourself thinking about it too much, keep in mind that monotypes are not overly detailed rows of work; they are works done on impulse. So just go with the flow – you won’t mess anything up!
In summation
Making beautiful monotypes is enjoyable from the start since they are constantly changing with new ideas.
Be it the process and material selection, and of course making mistakes or presenting the pieces, every aspect provides a lesson which is unique and practical.
So pick a sheet of paper and go on make your handcrafted mark without hesitation! I push you to try out new colors, styles, certain techniques or just your own unique preference. If looking to tap into self emotions or fun, highly and I mean highly encourage Monotype printing.
If you have any monotype printing experiences, I would be happy to learn about them. Kindly leave your art and stories down in the comments section below. Perhaps your adventure will motivate someone to grab their brayers and have a go at it too.
