Less is More when making prints

Gelatin and glycerin plate print by linda germain
Gelatin plate monotype with found stencils

I  am entertaining the idea that less is more.

Less is more…

Where could I apply this idea?

  • Colors in a print
  • Textures in  a print
  • Objects in the composition
  • Stuff in my studio
  • Things on my to do list
  • Time to complete a project

What do you think could less be more for you in some areas of your artwork or life?

Make minimal monotypes

Share your thoughts below.

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“Now, I have the confidence to try different printing techniques and to even cut up the gelatin plate to get interesting shapes.” says Lynne P.

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11 thoughts on “Less is More when making prints”

  1. I think if we take this idea far enough, we might even find world peace. Thanks, Linda. It’s a beautiful concept, and your print is a perfect voice for it!

  2. i spent the weekend ripping into the studio…..reconfiguring my table and storage area……..and ruthlessly allowing myself to recycle and toss scraps. i got rid of one piece of furniture that gave me more rpoom in my office area [i also see clients there]. less is truely more today! i am also practicing more neutrals in my work.

  3. You don’t need lots of different size gelatin plates. Make a big one in a cookie sheet, Don’t unmold it. Cover it with another cookie sheet of the same time between printing sessions. Learn to mask off a section of the plate for small prints. Mine, made with the formula which contains glycerin and alcohol, has lasted more than 6 months.

    1. Really good advice Susan! Only I do prefer to unmold my plate but it is easily put back for storage in between printing sessions. Definitely spring cleaning my studio and to do list. Thanks for the timely prompt Linda!

  4. a timely e mail- I just returned from a trip to the Salvation where I dropped
    off 90 books!!!!!
    I love minimal works of art- I’m experimenting with less color also.

  5. Sometimes I choose just one color and work it until I am sick of it. Days, weeks, months. It lets you pay more attention to shape, form, position, design…less is more.

  6. I believe that clutter (too much stuff) will stifle creativity. Productivity requires organization, which can’t be achieved when clutter’s in the mix.

  7. As I have gotten older I have found that fewer ingredients in my cooking, especially if I have carefully selected them for flavor, color and freshness makes for better tasting food. Works for my prints, too.

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