P1: Monotype

Background

MONOTYPE is the printing of an image from a clean, unworked surface containing no scratching or carving (in contrast to an etching plate or woodblock).

A monotype is, as its name implies, a one-of-a-kind image. Ink is applied in any of a multitude of ways to a smooth surface and then transferred to paper. Unlike most printmaking processes, a monotype image is not reproducible: each print is a unique impression. Monotypes have been called the most painterly of prints, because if ink is applied to the plate with a brush, the resulting print may display brushmarks quite similar to those of a painting.

Assignment

You will produce a total number of 4 final black and white monotype images of your own designs. Consider printing on various types of paper stock and color (watercolor, craft, bristol, etc.)

2 portraits: 1 from memory (artistic, abstract); 1 from photograph (must be taken by you)
2 open subject-matter (still life, landscape, etc.): from memory or photographs

You turn in
4 final prints
2 mounted on white matte-board (1 portrait, 1 open)
2 mounted and framed on 16×20 frames (get them from Rhonda in the Art Office)

Presentation

Friday, Feb 3

• Prints are due at the beginning of the class.
• Prints will ordinarily be critiqued as a class on the day of presentation.
• Unless otherwise stated, all due prints are to be presented in show quality:

1. matted in a professional, perfectly cut, spotless white or off white mat.
2. signed in pencil
3. framed

Calendar

Friday – Jan 20 – project brief, demo
Monday – Jan 23 – portrait sketches, initial thoughts and ideas. Image archive.
Wednesday – Jan 25 – start proofs/printing, experiment with various paper
Friday – Jan 27 – finalize portrait images
Monday – Jan 30 – open subject-matter sketches
Wednesday – Feb 1 – proof/printing, finalize images
Friday – Feb 3 – presentation

Grade Criteria
Research                 30points
Concept, Creativity            30points
Execution/technique            20points
Visual/Verbal Presentation        20points