Two tips to learn to see Negative space

masking stencils / /

Post by Linda Germain

© 2013 linda germain      Stencils drying during workshop

These stencils caught my eye during the recent gelatin printmaking class.   I like to use figures in my prints and the way these ladies were draped over the back of this chair, just grabbed my attention.

I think they are simply photocopies  on regular paper or on card stock.  They look like they have a coat of mat medium on them and are drying in between coats.

The black and white one has great negative space.

One way I check for interesting negative space is I look at the stencil from the back and if it is still interesting then I think it has an interesting shape/negative space.

Another test that I do, is I squint at the image and try to imagine it as a solid impression, without the details.  Identifying expressive negative space and shapes takes a little practice.

Look for “holes” created by the parts of our stencil.  like the arms and legs are doing above.

Happy Printing!

 

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Back in the Studio – ready for Gelatin Printing

2010 / /

 

© 2013 linda germain – “it’s all a blur”

One week ago, I was just getting started with the 3 day Monothon of Gelatin Printmaking in Austin, TX and hosted by the Women Printmaker’s of Austin.

Just now, I have finally unpacked the suitcase of papers, tools and supplies.

During the monothon, twelve brave artists,

  • made gelatin plates,
  • did “yoga printmaking”
  • made over 500 prints
  • tried several different inks and papers
  • shared insights and discoveries about gelatin printmaking
  • cut strong stencils for masking
  • used framing mats for a finished look
  • celebrated the time and space just to play and experiment
  • learned to layer impressions
  • considered several book forms
  • learned to use the gelatin plate for it’s malleability whenever transferring a mark
Thank you to the wonderful workshop participants for a such dynamic experience.  I always say that the teacher can learn just as much from her students as they do from her.  I hope to see some of their work popping up on their own, websites, shops and blogs.

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8 hints for cutting stencils for gelatin printmaking

gelatin print tips, masking stencils / /

Post by Linda Germain

© 2013 linda germain cutting stencils from magazines for gelatin printing

I was flipping through some old magazines looking for some new masking stencils for gelatin printing.  I like people in motion or with interesting negative shapes.  They are harder to find than you think.

Here’s some things I learned about cutting stencils:
  • Use a new sharp razor blade to get smooth cuts
  • Move the paper instead of moving the blade
  • Cut the tiny details first – it is more stable this way
  • Try to keep as many small details as you can
  • look at the image from the backside to check for interesting shape
  • Your scraps may be interesting stencils too.
  • Don’t be afraid to cut past the outline several times when cutting a delicate curve
  • Be open to new images and shapes
Check the current workshop list for a class that would interest you.

 

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Space for Gelatin Printmaking – How much do you need?

gelatin plate care / /

 

© 2013 linda germain  This is how I set up my space for gelatin monotype printing.

One of the benefits of taking a workshop at my studio is that I give you lots of space to spread out and create.  Check out the class schedule here.

But is all that space necessary?  Can you make beautiful gelatin prints in a smaller space, with fewer materials?  I think yes!  But I am going to experiment with that idea for a while.  I am going to print at  home with less stuff.
© 2013 linda germain Mixing up 2 cups of gelatin
for printmaking.  See the video here.
So I found a foam meat tray from the trash bin and mixed up 2 cups of gelatin.
 I had to share the counter with the rest of the family.  I let it harden there and then transferred it to the refrigerator.
I found a good hiding place for it under one of the draws.
© 2013 linda germain Leveling the tray of gelatin
with a folded paper shim.

The counter top was not quite level so I shimmed the foam tray with a piece of folded paper.

I was very careful to slowly pour the gelatin in to the tray so that it did not dribble all over the place.  That can be quite a mess to clean up.

© 2013 linda germain  – Sightly frozen gelatin  for printing

I am not sure if you can tell from the photo, but my gelatin plate froze a little.

This can happen when the refrigerator it on a cold temperature, or if the gelatin is too close to the back of the refrigerator.

This freeze was not too deep so the plate is ok to use.  I just chipped off the ice and put some newsprint on top to absorb the moisture.

Sometimes those freeze lines can make interesting print marks.

© 2013 linda germain – small space experiment for
gelatin printmaking

So I have claimed this little table for some gelatin plate printmaking.  I don’t have to clean up or share it with anyone else.  The lighting is pretty good.

I made a 5″ x 7″ framing mat out of an old mat.

What is your workspace like?

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