Inspiration & Tools at Your Feet

found rust by linda germain

I have been walking around town even though it has been very cold lately.  The fresh air always does me good.  I usually come back to the studio with a new idea, solution to a challenge or at least a treasure that I found on the street.

I may not use these rusty scraps in a print, but they always catch my attention.  I do have a box of rusty things for rusting paper and fabric.  Spritz, layer, press and wait.  Do you pick up inspiration on the street?

The fabric and leather samples were a find at the recycle store Extras for Creative Reuse in Lynn.  This is a great place to find stuff for making art.  I always find paper, threads, and mark making tools.  If you are local to Lynn, MA  check them out.

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Glass – new tool for printmaking

cut glass as stamping tool for monotype printing making with linda germain
Cut glass as stamping tool for monotype printing making by linda germain

On my midday walk I found this delicate glass plate.  I thought, “oh,  what marks it could make on the glycerin/gelatin plate.”  So as soon as I got back to the studio, I tested it out.

It is even cooler than I imagined.  Do you use cut glass in your printmaking?

If you would like to explore monotype printmaking with me, in the second session of Make Monotypes, then make sure you are on the mailing list.  Next class will start in March and registration will open at the end of February. Join the list here  Happy Printing!

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Future Beauty @ PEM 2 more days

Yesterday, I went to the Peabody Essex Museum to see Future Beauty: Avant-Garde Japanese Fashion.  I was so pleased as soon as I stepped into the exhibit.  I was greeted by huge fashion silhouettes with mirrors.

shape prints by linda germain
shape prints on a gelatin and glycerin plate by linda germain

I have often thought about reflections in art exhibits.  Generally the glare and reflection from the glass is not part of the exhibit, but I would like to do an exhibit where it is an integral part of the experience.

We pick and choose what we see.  And often we choose not to see ourselves in the art, reflection or space.  Did I lose you?  Try it next time you are admiring a framed and glass covered piece of art.

Can you see yourself?  It is important? Does it matter?  I don’t really know.  Does it affect how you feel or your experience of the art?

 

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Snow draws me Out of the Studio

Linda Germain's studio Jan 2014Huge snow flakes are falling outside. It is a challenge to stay inside when the snow says come out and play.

I guess there is always some good excuse to play.  Play is important.  That is why I try to add play to my printmaking.  I try to approach a project with a sense of discovery and invention.  When I do that, then I am happy and usually something magical beyond my control happens.

Enjoy!

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