Printmakers@Geelong

Break up lunch

2011-12-03T20:55:00.001-08:00

Last class for the year. A shared lunch and a time to catch up. Lovely day.

A Merry Christmas to all and here's hoping for many inky gifts from Santa.

Group Photo in Studio

2011-11-18T18:06:00.001-08:00

Georgia, Gaye, Steve, Janet, Maija, Jo, Sheila, John, Pam, Elizabeth and Janet.

This photo was taken by Damien Kelly when he visited the studio 2011.

Print Council of Australia inc visit

2011-11-10T00:49:00.001-08:00

Today, some of Geelong Printmakers were fortunate to be able to share lunch with Damien Kelly and Georgia Thorpe from The Print Council of Australia inc.
This get together took place at the Studio of one of the Printmakers and gave everyone present the chance to put faces to names. Damien had a bit of a show and tell, Georgia handed out some invites to an exhibition and they both viewed some unframed works from the Printmakers. A group photo in the Studio will be posted when it is received from Damien.

For now, the following images give an indication of those present.

This image: Damien Kelly (back) Robyn (seated) Patsy and Steve (Looking at phone) and Janet holding print.

Teresa, Jenny, Patsy, Steve and Jo.

Pam, Georgia,Teresa, Jenny, Patsy and Steve.

Sheila, Elizabeth, Lynette and John.

Looking for a home

2011-10-25T21:28:00.000-07:00

Printmakers@Geelong, or should I say one printmaker in particular, has been busy researching a permanent home for the Printmakers where they can gain open studio access.

From the feedback received, it seems the use of a larger press would be most desirable.

Shortly, a meeting of interested parties will be called to ascertain the amount of enthusiasm for this idea and the formation of an Artists Run Initiative.

This is the building being looked at. It is part of a 14acre past woollen mill site in North Geelong. The interior is 100 square metres and as you can see, it has that grungy, industrial look. Great access, great parking. Water and power. Also toilet facilities just behind the yellow crates.

WATCH THIS SPACE.

Exhibition Feedback Form

2011-10-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

FEEDBACK: INAUGURAL EXHIBITION – SHEARERS’ ARMS GALLERY –GEELONG WEST. 12^th September– 2^nd October 2011.

Your impression of the Exhibition as a whole.

Could the exhibition be improved? Yes No

If yes, how?

Were there any issues you would like to raise? Yes No

If yes, please express here:

Would you prefer a different venue next time? Yes No

If yes, where?

Did you consider the cost fair? Yes No

Were the number of exhibitors acceptable? Yes No

Would you support the idea of a permanent Artist RunInitiative Printmaking Studio in Geelong? Yes No

With a press available for hire? Yes No

Please state anything that you feel could have been attendedto in a more efficient manner. e.g. one person was left off the invite etc.(this actually happened).

If insufficient space, elaborate on attachment.

This can be returned by email if so desired toprintmakersatgeelong@gmail.com

Exhibition

2011-09-14T21:36:00.000-07:00

Here are some images from the exhibition. Not great as lighting is an issue but will give the idea.

2011-09-13T15:35:00.000-07:00

http://printmakersatgeelong.blogspot.com

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST TOEXHIBIT

Areyou a Contemporary Printmaker from the Geelong Region who would like to beconsidered for exhibition in the future with Printmakers@Geelong?

Registeryour interest by email to printmakersatgeelong@gmail.com indicating your preferred techniques, a oneparagraph Artist Statement and including at least two jpeg images of recentwork.

Allwho exhibit with Printmakers@Geelong share the staging of the exhibitionfinancially as well as the physical aspects of a show, which includes somemeetings. Exhibiting this way keeps costs down, so it is affordable for all.

You are invited

2011-08-29T13:34:00.000-07:00

Printmakers @ Geelong is a group of 28 Artist Printmakers coming together for their first exhibition. Their charter is to further Printmaking as a contemporary art form. As the name suggests, we are from the Geelong region. Their role is to both educate and engage the general public and art lovers to enquire about today's printmaker.

There has been a resurgence of interest in the print over the past decade and indeed the following is growing. Gradually, the public is understanding that there is more to printmaking than books alone. Printing has played a major role throughout history as a form of mass communication mostly using the written word. Indigenous peoples made hand and footprints to get their message out. The artist printmaker is looking for something different. The only way the image they want, can be produced, is through this medium, to visually convey their message.

Around the Gallery you will find examples of some of the techniques utilized by the Printmakers to make the images before you. The terminology will intrigue you.

You are invited to not only view the exhibition, but to question the Printmakers to enable a deeper understanding of the processes used to make this work.

Friday Printmakers @ Wintergarden

2011-07-19T14:28:00.000-07:00

Here are some recent images of the exhibition currently showing at Wintergarden Geelong. This exhibition was opened by Marco Luccio.

You are invited

2011-06-05T14:42:00.000-07:00

September exhibition at Shearer's Arms Gallery

2011-04-28T14:04:00.000-07:00

Hello All,

A reminder that the second meeting to nut out the details for the forthcoming Printmakers@Geelong exhibition to be held in September is to take place Saturday 7th May at 11am at The Shearer's Arms Gallery, Aberdeen St, Geelong West.

We will be sorting out the invitation, number of works (an update) catering arrangements, opening times etc. Cr. Abley has agreed to open the exhibition.

If unable to make it, please keep an eye on this blog where I will post individual costs and who is doing what.

Cheers

Gaye

Marco Luccio

2011-04-18T03:03:00.000-07:00

Hi

I went up to see Marco Luccio's exhibition yesterday and it was fantastic. The work is very different to his previous bold cityscape drypoints (which I love). They are unique states, colorful figurative and involve mixed media - I loved them. Some of the most interesting work is on old postcards and envelopes that he has found overtime on his trips to New York. It is really worth seeing this if you can.

cheers

rps

Steps Gallery
Until 1st May
62 Lygon Street
CARLTON SOUTH

Hi from RPS

2011-04-16T03:11:00.000-07:00

Hi there. Long time no see. Thank you to everyone who made it to the opening at Gallery 135 - I had a great time. Also thanks to everyone who will see it before it finishes. It is well worth the drive down - I love John's, Gaye's, Steve's and Pips work. There is something for everyone. So if you haven't been yet come on down, grab a coffee at Drysdale or continue on to Portarlington where there are a couple of more galleries along with plenty of places to get great food and coffee.

What a buzz! Its so amazing because you feel like you aren't going to make the deadline but you do!! I need goals like this to keep me focused and on my toes. Looking forward to July - so I say now.

This is a shellac etching of a pierced ear, but I am in the process of changing into a surrealist feature in a landscape - perhaps it will become a dinosaur head. I will post the final image later.

cheers
rps

Juxtaposed Opening

2011-04-10T16:11:00.000-07:00

Many of our creative friends attended the opening of "Juxtaposed" at Gallery 135, Drysdale. The following images are of most of the exhibitors. John McClumpha was hard to tie down for a photo, but his work can be seen. Alas, I could not take a photo of myself.

Steve Parkhill

Gallery corner

John's prints

Pip behind flowers

Robyn Sandford

Gaye Nieuwenhof

Get yourself down to see the exhibition if you haven't done so already. We appreciate your support.

A little bird told me.

2011-03-27T14:42:00.000-07:00

Psssssssssssst! Janet Cattlin won an award for her print: A partridge in a pear tree at the Ballan Art Show. Congratulations Janet from all your fellow printmakers.

UPCOMING EXHIBITION

2011-03-23T01:48:00.000-07:00

Here it is folks - you are invited to the opening, but if you can't make it, don't worry, it's on till the 6th of May. Bring cash.

LINOCUT MASK

2011-03-19T04:37:00.000-07:00

I've been doing a few reduction linocuts lately, and if I anticipate that a colour will show through the next colour on top of it then I create a mask (using acetate) so that the colour I am applying only goes where I want it to. One colour showing through the next can of course be used to great effect, but if you don't want it to......... Ink manufacturer's claims regarding opacity should be taken with a grain of salt. I have attached a photo of a mask used on a current project (if it works OK you can see it at the upcoming "Juxtaposed" exhibition - details will be posted on this blog in a coupla days)

Love it, hate it, love it, hate it!

2011-03-16T23:25:00.000-07:00

Recently I read this sentence in another blog where the artist was speaking of her process. She stated that she just starts to work and then goes on this roller coaster ride of love/hate until she feels the work has been resolved. It strikes me as how many of us work. Never quite sure if it is working out or not. We always hear it is the journey that is important and I would have to agree when it comes to making art. It would be great if contributors to this blog could write a little about their process and how they go about making the work. Maybe it could be revealed what the preferred technique is?

The above image is an encaustic monotype with graphite drawing. Title: Looking at sand. The print is on Hosho light paper encased in encaustic beeswax.

I am happy to start: My work is always about the environment. I love rock forms and aerial views. Texture forms a great part of my collagraphs but I also like to work in various other media including encaustic, screen prints (unconventional techniques) solarplate, waterless lithography and monotypes to name a few. Combining any or all of these techniques produces hybrid prints which I find really exciting.

Now, someone else has the talking stick.

yf Gaye

Opening Printmakers@Geelong exhibition.

2011-03-08T13:29:00.000-08:00

The official opening for the September exhibition will take place Wednesday 14th September, 2011 at The Shearer's Arms gallery, Aberdeen St. Geelong West at 6 pm.

Councillor Barbara Abley (Arts and Culture Portfolio for The City of Greater Geelong) has agreed to open the exhibition and we are most grateful to her.

List of Exhibitors for Printmakers@Geelong Exhibition

2011-02-27T02:00:00.000-08:00

This Saturday past, many of the exhibitors attended a meeting at the Shearer's Arms Gallery, Aberdeen St, Geelong West to discuss the various elements that go together to stage an exhibition.

The exhibition will be titled: Printmakers@Geelong. Monday 12th September - Sunday 2nd October 2011. Official opening: Wednesday 14th September 6pm. The Gallery hours are Mon-Fri 11 - 5pm, Sat and Sun 1-4pm.

Exhibitors: (Not in alphabetical order).
John McClumpha,Robyn Sandford,Steve Parkhill,Pam Wansink,Sue Grossman,Leeanne Wright,Lynette Palmer,Sheila Muratori, Melinda Gregory, Maija Vasils,Cas Duff,Jill Giles,Fred Vahland, Therese Vahland,Jenny Holmes,Marj Harrison,Marieke Inei,Janet Cattlin, Janet Baird,Marcus Hull,Patsy Bush,Judith Bennett,Brooke Eberle,Ray Wood,Bronwyn Sturrock, Elizabeth Saxon, Jennifer Ford,Bill Warren,Gary Elliott,Teresa Culkin-Lawrence and Gaye Nieuwenhof. (30 all up).

If you missed the deadline which was Saturday, rest assured that there is always next year. More time to prepare your work.

Please keep in touch with fellow exhibitors via this blog and even post some of your work as you prepare for the exhibition.

All the best

Expression of Interest - Printmaking Exhibition

2011-02-12T20:34:00.000-08:00

Calling all Geelong and surrounding area Printmakers. An exhibition will be held at The Shearer's Arms Gallery, Geelong West from Monday 12th September to Sunday 2nd October 2011.

There is a meeting being held at the Geelong Art Society 11am Saturday 26th February for those wishing to be involved. This meeting will ascertain the number of Printmakers exhibiting, how many works will be exhibited, the costs involved for hire of the gallery, deciding on a format for the invitation and the development of a mailing list.

email: jgnieuwenhof@gmail.com to register your attendance at this meeting or if you are unable to attend, then register your interest to exhibit via your email. If your registration of interest is via email it is imperative that there is an understanding that your support will be given during the exhibition in regard to attendance and the housekeeping involved in staging the event.

There has been a resurgence of interest in Printmaking of late and this exhibition is sure to fire the interest of many more. There will be a maximum of 30 Printmakers, so if you are interested, note in your diary to respond.

Dim Sims with ammonia sauce ?

2011-01-18T01:10:00.000-08:00

On Friday, Saturday and Sunday I completed the APW's "The coloured etching" workshop, with Martin King. The workshop explored several different ways to introduce extra / multiple colours into etchings. It also covered familiar ground regarding plate preparation etc - a worthwhile exercise, because it's good to see the subtle and not so subtle differences in the way different operaters........ operate.... . One notable / amusing thing I learned was that an alternative (better I think) recipe to ammonia and whiting for degreasing copper plates is.....wait for it......SOY SAUCE and whiting - Instead of gagging on the fumes, you get a bit hungry. At lunchtime on Saturday I returned from lunch, to find the gallery swarming with familiar faces from Brougham (including 2 Friday Printmakers) - They were on an extensive gallery crawl.
The APW facilities are top notch - plenty of room for the 9 students, and very little time spent waiting to use a press etc. Highly recommended - 5 Stars.

Deconstructed prints

2010-12-17T00:03:00.000-08:00

Couldn't resist having a go at the deconstructed print style that Gaye demonstrated on one of her previous posts.

This is an interesting technique, particularly when you just feel like churning through the work (and paper). I have now got a stack of prints that will probably become backgrounds for other works or cut up to make cards and things.

Printmaking Workshop - Intermediate Fabric Printing

2010-12-16T12:54:00.000-08:00

The following workshop is in need of at least one other participant to go ahead. Several of the Friday Printmakers will be attending. Take a look at www. firestationprintstudio.com.au for further details.

If further information is required, or you want to attend please email:
sheila.muratori@bigpond.com asap to indicate your intentions.

Office Hrs: Wed- Fri (11- 1.30 & 2- 5), Gallery: Wed- Sat (11 – 1.30 & 2-5)
www.firestationprintstudio.com.au
Firestation Print Studio, 2 Willis Street (just off Glenferrie Road), Armadale, VIC 3143
Tel: 03 9509 1782 & E-mail: firestat@firestationprintstudio.com.au
Visiting Artists Program
Intermediate Fabric
Printing
with Rhett Kilner
One Day Workshop
Sunday, 23 January
11.00am – 4.00pm
$145

Ants III by Rhett Kilner
(70x140cm)
Course Content
Process: Colour printing onto fabric using print-ready intaglio and lino plates.
This course will introduce new techniques to competent printmakers wanting to explore a
world away from printing on paper, introducing them to the opportunities and possibilities
of fabric, using their own plates. Many of the techniques will be used in unison, giving a
textured and layered effect to the chosen cotton fabric. Fabric printing is a versatile
process and widely recognized as an essential element of fabric design.
As students will have a prior understanding of printmaking, they will be directed in
combining their existing knowledge with this exciting new technique. Each student will
print his or her own images and apply colour prints onto their chosen fabric. This class
will allow students to produce unique artworks that are both functional and individual.
All heath and safety requirements are in place, solvent free clean up. Classes are limited
to six students so as to provide the very best experience and access to the teacher’s
attention and time.
Office Hrs: Wed- Fri (11- 1.30 & 2- 5), Gallery: Wed- Sat (11 – 1.30 & 2-5)
www.firestationprintstudio.com.au
Firestation Print Studio, 2 Willis Street (just off Glenferrie Road), Armadale, VIC 3143
Tel: 03 9509 1782 & E-mail: firestat@firestationprintstudio.com.au
Outcomes
Students will create printed fabrics to use in a variety of applications. Participants will be
provided with new opportunities and a range of possibilities to explore and develop in
their own art practice.
What To Bring
Students are asked to bring their previously completed plates and chosen fabrics to print
on. Please bring cotton based materials if you are intending to be able to heat set in a
clothes dryer or using a hot iron. I.E cushion covers, t-shirts, tea towels, canvass, etc.
However if you are not worried about the process of heat curing the chosen fabrics I.E
you will be stretching the artwork over a frame to hang, you could consider fabrics like
silk, synthetics with some cotton, lycra or other to print onto.
Please bring plates to fit within the dimensions 45cm by 65cm, and cotton fabric size to
match. Smaller pieces are fine also. The plates can be copper, zinc, steel, aluminum,
photo polymer or lino, as each plate will already be processed and ready to ink-up.
unetched plate {Maple Leaf} Printed on black cotton{Maple Leaf etching}
Office Hrs: Wed- Fri (11- 1.30 & 2- 5), Gallery: Wed- Sat (11 – 1.30 & 2-5)
www.firestationprintstudio.com.au
Firestation Print Studio, 2 Willis Street (just off Glenferrie Road), Armadale, VIC 3143
Tel: 03 9509 1782 & E-mail: firestat@firestationprintstudio.com.au
About Rhett Kilner
Rhett Kilner works and resides in Melbourne. He has studied printmaking at National Art
School, Sydney, Horsetsia College Of The Arts, London and at London Print Studio, in
conjunction with Brighton University. In 2004 Rhett established his own clothing label
Bronzen Temple Prints from which his highly detailed etchings started appearing on tshirts
and textiles. Textile designs from Bronzen Temple Prints retail both overseas and
in Melbourne. “The Dancing Queen” fabric store, in Richmond, Melbourne have
purchased and printed various Bronzen Temple Prints designs. Large scale printing is
one of Rhett’s primary interests. Wearable artwork is his second love. Rhett has
previously taught etching, photo etching and screen-printing in both London and in
Australia and has exhibited overseas and in Australia and New Zealand. Currently Rhett
is planning his next exhibition in Melbourne for 2010 and developing his new website.
Bookings
To book a place on this exciting new course contact Edith at the Studio, ph 9509 1782
Wed-Fri, 11-1.30 & 2-5
& Payment Details
Bendigo Bank, East Malvern Branch
Acc Name: Firestation Print Studio
BSB: 633 000
Acc no: 1388 03457
Payments must be received before a course place can be booked.
A minimum of 4 students is required to hold each class.

A different technique

2010-12-08T21:28:00.000-08:00

Hi All, Have been trying a new technique. It is called "breakdown printing". The good thing is that I haven't had a "breakdown" yet. Will leave one image. Wonder if you can work out how I made it?

Where is everyone else? Where is your work? Hopefully we will see some more on the blog in the next couple of days.

Inkfusion was a great exhibition. Well done! G.

INkFUSION

2010-11-19T02:03:00.000-08:00

If you click on the INkFUSION invitation it is as clear as day. Thanks for putting it on John.

cheers
rps

INKFUSION exhibition - don't miss it !!!

2010-11-18T03:01:00.000-08:00

Bit hard to read - but the artists are Sue Grossman, Raelene Newton, Rebecca Sherman, and Leeanne Wright. Opening is 1 - 4 Sat 27th Nov @ Brougham Gallery.

Hi from rps

2010-11-17T00:52:00.000-08:00

Hi there. Is everyone aware that both Neil Wallace Printmaking Supplies and Melbourne Etching Supplies have got their half yearly paper sales on. Go to Melbourne Etching Supplies and www.e-artstore.net. Its a great time to stock up.

I have been working on a few things. Here are are some proofs. They are works in progress.

cheers
rps

Collograph
Collograph
Lino cuts

Friday Printmaking Print Exchange

2010-11-11T22:01:00.000-08:00

The Friday class has completed their Print Exchange titled: "Friday on my mind".

The following images are the prints included in the edition of 13.

A great year of Printmaking has been enjoyed by all and everyone went home with a wonderful satchel of hand made prints.

I am still alive

2010-11-02T03:34:00.001-07:00

Well I have been trying to produce some work. I have many things on the go, but not any perfected yet. I have been really frustrated and wondering if printmaking really is for me - the organisation and cleanliness required is incredibly painful and restricting. I don't think that there is a work space big enough to cope with me. Perhaps I just haven"t found my process yet.

I did a reduction print using my safe wash caligo inks on silk cut. On the final roll, which is with black, it seems to have taken off tiny spots from the two previous colors. When I take the plate off it is covered with tiny blue and coral spots, resulting in a speckled print. Any ideas? I think I might multiple plate method and not reduction lino cuts for a while.

The picture of the print I have uploaded is done without the final black that keeps stuffing up. I have two left and I am just going to keep them the way that they are.

cheers

rps

Latest effort

2010-10-31T20:17:00.000-07:00

This is an intaglio bleed print from a shellac burn on an aluminium plate.

Maybe more work will emerge this coming week. Here's hoping.

Wood engraving

2010-10-31T03:22:00.000-07:00

Commenced work on a wood engraving today - my first one, apart from a quicky at a David Frazer workshop a year ago - Judging by my progress so far, this one should be ready for the Wintergarden exhibition........... in 2014 !!!

Go Geelong

2010-10-24T13:52:00.000-07:00

http://artingeelong.com Received this link to another blog concentrating on Geelong/Greater Barwon region. It looks wonderful and it seems things are really starting to move. After the frustrations of trying to acquire a physical space for artists, now the internet comes to the rescue.

Please show your support by becoming a follower.

G.

Where is everyone?

2010-10-13T18:49:00.000-07:00

Have been revisiting Collagraph this week with mixed results so far. Anyhoo, thought I would put up an image in the hope that others might also.

This was inked up in the Brenda Hartill tradition of using rubs, which is a viscosity printing technique.

Hope to see some more work from you all. Cheers G.

2010-10-06T02:45:00.000-07:00

Very nice John. from E.

Latest linocut

2010-10-06T01:51:00.000-07:00

Howdy folks - just to prove I've done some printing.... here's a new linocut that I finished on Sunday. The image is lo res and has an ugly strip on it because it was too big for my scanner, and I had to do it in two halves and splice them together in photoshop (Yes, I ripped off the painting that I entered in the Art Is exhibition).

Printmakers@Geelong Exhibition GAS 2011

2010-10-02T16:41:00.000-07:00

Hello interested parties,

The whole of the Shearers' Arms Gallery is now booked for 12th September - 2nd October, 2011 inclusive. The Gallery Hanging committee will hang the works. Will keep you posted on the cost of the entire gallery for that time so you will get an idea of each individual's costs. At present don't know whether a commission is to be paid. Will keep on top of this and let you know as soon as I do.

Canadian visit

2010-09-29T21:47:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Returned from overseas Tuesday and still a bit flat from jet-lag but in sorting through the numerous bits of paper and photographs from the trip to Canada I wanted to share a couple of links with you.

I happened upon an exhibition of prints by Canadian artist Sybil Andrews in Victoria and thought others might enjoy her work.
http://www.suite101.com/content/sybil-andrews-modernist-linocut-printmaker-a208443

also visited two of the artist run printmaking spaces at the Malaspina Printmakers Studio and Gallery www.malaspinaprintmakers.com and Dundarave Print Workshop www.dundaraveprintworkshop.ca. Unfortunately the summer period is pretty quiet in these studios so had to be content to view the great work in their gallery and wander through the studio spaces.

Numerous other galleries visited but not many exhibitions of original hand pulled prints.

Looking forward to getting time in my own studio now that I am refreshed and have heaps of photos of reference material to motivate me.

Pam

2010-09-28T17:28:00.000-07:00

Once more I attempt to post something here. How hard can it be??? The opening of the artIS 12x12 comp was last Thursday evening. A good turn out. I won an "Honourable Mention" for one of my prints. Classes recommence soon, yay, looking forward to seeing soem of you again. E.

Encaustic Collagraph

2010-09-16T16:46:00.000-07:00

Here is the result of my experimentation in the past week. There is something ethereal about this print. Its as though you could fall into it.

GIVING WOODCUT A GO

2010-09-09T03:27:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

Well I have attempted my first woodcut and my first reduction print. I used an image from a drawing I did a year or so ago. I enjoyed the process, although I would do a couple of things differently next time. I would take my blanket out and run the print through with just a piece of matt board on top and I may use different wood for my block - something a bit thicker. Here are some photos I took during the process.

CHEERS RPS

Expression of Interest

2010-09-08T17:09:00.000-07:00

Printmakers@Geelong is calling on Geelong Printmakers to express their interest in staging an exhibition at the Shearer's Arms Gallery, Geelong West in September,2011. At this stage the date seems to be 5th September onwards for 3 weeks.

Please reply to printmakersatgeelong@gmail.com

It will be necessary to attend a meeting of all parties in the New Year to discuss this. As we move into the New Year postings will appear on this blog.

JOHN's PRINTMAKING TIPS

2010-08-23T02:21:00.000-07:00

TIP I. I read in a book somewhere that you could use a SHARPIE pen as an acid resist. I was a bit skeptical (as I am about most things - except climate change). But !! on the weekend I made a test plate using my new batch of ferric chloride, and I used a SHARPIE pen to rule up the squares, and write the minute numbering in each square (mirrored of course). And..... lo and behold - when I had finished and cleaned up the plate, the lines and numbers masked by the SHARPIE ink were untouched by the ferric chloride. Surely a technique worth further experimentation.

Tip II. I bought the above mentioned ferric chloride in liquid form from Neil Wallace - In the past I have made it up from crystals - buying it ready made wins hands down in my book (I haven't done a cost analysis). * The liquid can't be mailed - so if you can't get to Melb you're stuck with mail order crystals OR (TIP III) ask you know who if she'll get you some next time she goes up :-). JM

Having a go at Mono-types

2010-08-22T04:23:00.000-07:00

(above) First print off.

(above) This is the plate inked, wiped and ready for printing.

(above) Ghost print. I added some ink for the nostril, but I should have wiped in back a bit so it wouldn't be so dominant.

(below) Scary Baby take 1 and Scary Baby take 2 - are they horns or fingerprints?)

Hi every-one,

Well I finally got to have a play on my press today! I was really meant to be concentrating on getting some paintings done for the 12 x 12 exhibition, but what the hell! I was inspired to try and do some mono-types asdemonstrated on the video that Gaye downloaded on to this site. The results can be seen above.

I don't know if I would call them successful, as the baby I was trying to draw is cute and the resulting baby is quite scary. Strangely I do like them.

I rolled the ink on to acetate and wiped it back with a rag and cotton buds. The ink seemed to come off easier on the video. It was like wrestling! The paper I used was only cheap and grainy - but good for experimenting with. I know these aren't fantastic, but it is good to show the good and the bad and the ugly. Hopefully you can be witness to my improvement as time goes on!

I would love to see what others are up to, so try and post something.

cheers
rps

2010-08-18T03:08:00.000-07:00

Still not sure I've got this beat, I thought I just posted something but it all vanished again. Love your new press Robyn, I'm SOOO jealous, sounded a bargain too!

MY NEW PRESS

2010-08-16T05:12:00.001-07:00

Well I went and picked up my press on Saturday and I must say it a visually pleasing piece of work! I chose the Junior Etching Press. It specifications are : overall weight 45 kg, roller diameter 65mm top and 55mm bottom, bed length 800mm, width 400mm, bed thickness 20mm. I upgraded to a solid ground steel bed. Basically I can print up to a A3 sheet of paper which will suit me for now. It is a portable press if needed - two people can lift it. I purchased it from Neil Wallace Printmaking Supplies in Fitzroy in Victoria and most presses are made on the premises. Cost was $1115 and it came with a 3mm blanket, two tins of ink, and a plastic sheet for registration. I also purchased a thicker blanket of 6mm for an extra $46 (I think). If you type Neil Wallace into your google searcher you will find the site.

Here are some photos. It sits very solidly on the table - eventually I may bolt it directly on. You can buy a stand for it for an extra $200 odd dollars, but I felt I could get away with it.

Lets see what I can produce.

cheers
rps

Complaining won't work

2010-08-14T02:40:00.000-07:00

This is one wise woman.

Re: exhibition blues

2010-08-11T23:47:00.000-07:00

Gaye, That is a great article and provides much food for thought. The point that I appreciated was to be ready and accepting of the reality but also never stop the dreaming if that is what you indeed want. The point that seemed to be somewhat glossed over is to always remember why you "create" and the pleasure that gives you - exhibiting and selling may just be extra icing

Post Exhibition Blues

2010-08-11T13:34:00.001-07:00

This article was reproduced with the kind permission of Sylvia White and ArtAdvice.com

Almost everyone has experienced loss in one form or another at some point in their lives. After the tragedy on September 11th, most of us don't have to look very far to find someone who has been touched by loss. For artists, learning how to recognize and cope with loss will help them in understanding the common phenomenon known as post exhibition blues.

It is normal to experience the sense of loss that accompanies grief when we are confronted with the death of a relative, friend or even a pet but, artists need to learn how to recognize the importance of grieving, when confronted with loss of an expectation or fantasy. Regardless of how unrealistic we may acknowledge it to be.

I realized after receiving a post-exhibition phone call from a distraught, depressed artist, that what she was experiencing was very similar to the crash I felt 10 days after losing a dear friend. After all, for most artists, an exhibition represents years of hard work, an investment in not only time and money, but tremendous emotional commitment. Most importantly, to the educated viewer, it provides a glimpse into who you are as a person. This is a pretty scary concept to most people who spend their lives trying to orchestrate the way they are viewed by the world. Whether you are aware of it or not, you carry with you certain expectations in mounting an exhibition. These expectations can range from hoping your mother is proud of you, to getting a good review in the New York Times. Your job, as a mature artist, is to figure out what these expectations are for yourself, how realistic they are to achieve, and what you can do to help yourself get through the mourning process with as little damage as possible.

For me, loss starts with denial. A period of time when I refuse to believe that whatever it is I have lost is really, really gone permanently. Next, comes the anger looking at everyone and everything to blame. Then, one day, without notice, I find myself so depressed I am limp. Next thing I know I'm crying uncontrollably. All I want to do is curl up in bed and disappear. Then, as if some miracle has occurred, after I have given myself the luxury to grieve, (which is really another way of saying "reflect on my loss") I can get up feeling refreshed, whole and healed. These are not secret strategies that I have invented. These are common sense strategies to help deal with your loss by acknowledging it and confronting it. Applying this strategy to artists, during the culmination of an exciting and stressful time in their career, provides a positive way to identify and understand this very common phenomenon.

Artists who are driven to make art are wired differently than the rest of us. Their need for survival is based on food, shelter and their need to create .For many artists I meet, to deprive them of art making would be the equivalent of depriving them of oxygen. Nothing made this quite so evident, as the movie Quills, when the Marquis de Sade was deprived of a writing utensil. His drive to create was so strong; he pierced his fingers and used his own blood to write. When we learn to recognize that an artist's creative product is borne from such a powerful inner drive, the huge significance of the creative product becomes somewhat easier to understand. Frequently, during the preparations for an exhibition, all the emphasis remains on the product the painting, the book, the play, whatever. Often times the enormous effect mounting an exhibition has on the psyche of the artist is often ignored. But, when an artist's work is held up to public scrutiny, it is in essence, a major loss. The studio is empty, the artwork now out of your control, strangers eyeing it, talking about it maybe even taking it home! It is virtually impossible not to have fantasies and expectations about people's reactions to the work, as well as the possibility of "getting discovered." It is the part of human nature that makes everyone who buys a lottery ticket feel convinced that they are going to be the next winner. And regardless of whether the exhibition is considered a "success" or not, many artists may experience post exhibition blues and should learn to prepare for it.

This phenomenon becomes even more complicated as we look at how each individual artist defines success. Take a good hard look at your expectations. A good exercise for artists preparing for an exhibition is to create a list of the long term and short-term goals they wish to achieve by having this show. You need to write these down. Writing them and reading them will give you a more accurate sense of reality. You can fantasize about wanting a show at the Whitney Museum and know intellectually that you don't really expect it to come as a result of this show but forcing yourself to write it on your list of long-term goals will give you a more accurate pulse of how realistic your goals really are. These will help you to understand the terms by which you define success for yourself. Allow yourself to go the full spectrum from humble to grandiose. I firmly believe that it is impossible to achieve your goals, if you are unable to visualize them go for the gold! The trick is, keeping everything in perspective. Examples of some common goals may include:

* Seeing your work in a public, professional context
* Pride at having friends and relatives acknowledge an important part of who you are
* Hearing strangers talk about your work (for better or for worse)
* Getting a review
* Having sales, how many?
* Getting important collectors, critics and curators to see the show
* Getting recognized by another gallery

Now, evaluate your list and assign a number value 1-5 that reflects how realistic these goals are for you. 1 being the most realistic, 5 being your best-case scenario. Don't forget to distinguish between those goals that are within your control i.e., sending out press packets to 40 writers and those things, which are out of your control getting a review published. Only those things that are within your control can be 1's. Doing this exercise will help you develop a sense of what is both realistic and within your control. Although it will help you to understand the underlying cause of the blues, it may not help to prevent them.

Lots of artists have developed different strategies for dealing with the blues you will need to identify your expectations first, then work on finding the tools to deal with them.

Here are a few suggestions that other artists have used. Feel free to use these, or develop your own strategies.

* Hold back the very last painting you have finished. Keep it in your studio as a springboard to future work instead of including it in the show.
* Take a trip/vacation immediately after the opening.
* Schedule meeting times at the gallery with friends, during the course of the exhibition, to allow yourself the opportunity to talk about the work with a receptive listener.
* Put out a guest book and encourage comments
* Start a new series of work before the work for the show is removed from your studio

In any case, your best defense against "Post Exhibition Blues" is your willingness to recognize and accept this very natural step in the creative process.

ArtAdvice.com, founded in 1979 by Sylvia White, in Los Angeles, is one of the few management consulting firms specializing in the career development of visual artists. They advise artists on all matters related to business, exhibitions, and marketing. In 1986 they expanded their consulting services to represent selected artists. In addition to their Los Angeles gallery space, they utilize associates in San Francisco, Chicago and New York to help us familiarize galleries, museums, collectors, critics, and curators with the work of emerging, mid-career, and established artists, their artists have participated in hundreds of exhibitions, nationally and internationally. Sylvia White currently serves on the advisory boards for ArtfulStyle.com, NowCulture.com and Guild.com.

Notice the plate he is using

2010-08-10T18:08:00.000-07:00

Collagraph monoprint using Akua inks.

2010-08-10T17:35:00.001-07:00

12x 12 Exhibition is on again!!!

2010-07-30T23:48:00.001-07:00

Closing Date for entry forms: Friday 3rd September 2010

Delivery: By mail or in person Friday 17th September

Exhibition Opening: Thursday 23rd September 2010 6pm - 8 pm

All works must be on a 12x12 inch square canvas (1.5 inch depth preferred)

Can be a painting, drawing, collage, photography, mixed media or PRINTMAKING.

FOR A MORE DETAILED SHEET AND ENTRY FORM YOU CAN EMAIL ME ON robyn@inkagain.com.au and I will email you a form or call into/contact art is.... studio Level 1, 64 Little Malop Street, GEELONG.

I really enjoyed particiapating in this exhibition last year.

cheers
rps

2010-07-29T23:52:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. I've finally managed to log on. It has taken me all afternoon. Sheila.

2010-07-29T18:37:00.000-07:00

2010-07-29T03:17:00.000-07:00

I've been having some fun with woodcuts. A lot of waste paper as usual but some of them are taking shape. For this one I used water based oil (no medium) for the first plate which was a ghost print (indian red colour) and vandyke brown (Akua impasto water based ink) for the second plate.

The design is based on some cave paintings from Tunisia but it looks more like three ladies with their racing day hats on.

Seems to have worked okay.

Size and technique used for work.

2010-07-16T14:51:00.000-07:00

"Midden"

It has been suggested that we could provide a bit more information about the technique we have used to make our prints and also the size of the finished work. The title would be helpful and If this is an edition, the size of that edition also. So here goes. "Midden" is a multi plate, reduction Woodcut with stencilling. Edition size 6. Hosho paper with Speedball water based inks. Size 38 x 42cm.

Hi from rps

2010-07-15T01:41:00.001-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted anything for so long, but I forgot how to do it!!!!

Well the opening went off fantastically. It was fun but hectic. My throat was worn out from talking so much. The official speeches were good and Steve gave me a few laughs as well. It was fantastic to be sharing this exhibition with twelve other people who have put so much effort into making top quality work. I was excited to show them off to my family and friends. It was exciting to see that there were quite a few red dots (and half dots) beside prints - I know that this is not the aim of the game, but it is nice to be able to pay some of the framing costs off the credit card!

Sorry I haven't got any photos to pass on - I forgot my camera (Thanks to Melinda for taking some for me on her camera). Now that the exhibition is on its way it is time to think of what to create next. I might try and concentrate on methods that don't need a press. Should be interesting.

cheers
robyn

Gallery Opening

2010-07-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

Pip Williams is having a little event to mark the opening of her gallery, and asked me to let Printmakers@Geelong know about it. Please note that it does require an RSVP. I'll be there. Cheers. JM * for a look at Pip's work, check out www.135gallery.com.au

2010-07-12T19:24:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to everyone. This exhibition and opening is a great success. I am keen to move onto new works now and have the confidence to follow through on some ideas that I was dithering about.

Here are a couple of images of works that didn't make the exhibition.

The work is up.

2010-07-03T00:57:00.000-07:00

Took a peek at the work on the wall at Wintergarden today. Quite a few pieces sold already. Congratulations everyone.

The following pics are not that great as the reflections on the glass from the lights in the building can be a bit distracting, but nontheless, will give everyone an idea of how wonderful the display is. If possible, get in and see the real thing, you will not be disappointed.

North Wall at Wintergarden.

West Wall at Wintergarden

The following images are of the work as I walked around the mezzanine in an anticlockwise direction.

Group Photo

2010-07-01T04:49:00.000-07:00

This image was taken at Wintergarden today and will appear in the Art page of the Geelong Advertiser alerting people to the opening of the exhibition.

Not all Printmakers involved are represented in this pic. Thought it was a lovely image anyway.

Well done everyone. After what seems a lengthy time, you have arrived. The work is amazing.

Back left to right: Lynette Palmer, John McClumpha, Janet Cattlin, Cas Duff
Front left to right: Leeanne Wright, Sheila Muratori and Sue Grossman.

Apologies to Mel: This was taken prior to your arrival. Was so caught up in the excitement of it all, I forgot to take another photo. Nevertheless, the photo in the paper will include Mel.

Others not shown in the photo, but part of the exhibition are: Robyn Sandford, Steve Parkhill, Pam Wansink, Maija Vasils, Elizabeth Saxon, Melinda Gregory.

The images shown are just a taster for the wonderful, hand pulled printmaking on exhibition during July at Wintergarden. There are both framed and unframed works for sale.

N.B. Unframed works purchased at the exhibition can be taken on the day.

Latest work

2010-06-29T22:38:00.000-07:00

Thought I would contribute to Printmakers@Geelong with a woodcut. These images are a combination of blocks which are reduction cut also. Sometimes I use stencils to add interest.

New Linocut from JM

2010-06-17T17:05:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest - I don't think I'll be churning out any more before the exhibition... JM

You're Invited

2010-06-13T02:15:00.000-07:00

Printmaker - Robyn

Welcome April.

2010-06-11T21:54:00.000-07:00

April is now a member of Printmakers@Geelong. Please welcome her.

Last day of Term

2010-06-11T04:23:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of the prints produced over the term by the Friday Printmakers. Quite a variety of work to view. Enjoy.

Collagraph Printmaker - Therese

Collagraph Printmaker - Cas

Woodcut Printmaker - Fred

Collagraph Printmaker - Marj

Here are the Printmakers@Geelong - one.

2010-06-08T17:25:00.000-07:00

Printmakers@Geelong held a meeting on a very frosty morning in The Shearers' Arms Gallery meeting room to nut out the finer details of their upcoming exhibition. "Friday Printmakers" to be held at Wintergarden.

Madam Chair is in the blue jacket. There was a round of applause when Pam offered to become the minute Secretary.

The images show there is some serious discussion taking place.

PRINTMAKING IS ALIVE AND WELL IN GEELONG.

There are 13 Printmakers involved in the Wintergarden Exhibition. The next exhibition will include several more. So, it is growing. Isn't that a good thing.

Studio Buzz

2010-06-04T14:40:00.000-07:00

The studio was abuzz yesterday with everyone completing work for the exhibition. Framing is happening, discussion is lively and generally everyone has that nervous energy that comes before putting work out there.

Here are some of the latest offerings:

Printmaker - Janet Cattlin

Printmaker - Maija Vasils

Printmaker - Lynette Palmer

Printmaker - Jill Giles

New work produced today

2010-05-28T05:57:00.000-07:00

A very productive day was had by all in the printmaking studio today. On offer are a few images to whet the appetite for what is to come. Some of these prints will be included in the exhibition "Friday Printmakers Collection" to be held at Wintergarden Gallery, Geelong during July.

Embossed linocut with Chine Colle

Janet Cattlin

Russ - Linocut by rps

Collagraph - Jill Giles

No hard edges

2010-05-24T18:48:00.000-07:00

Here is the work that I have decided to include on the invitation to our upcoming exhibition.

I quite like the softness of it as it looks a bit more like a charcoal drawing rather than a print from a shellac plate.

It reminds me of the sparsity of the outback areas. It often look dead until you get up close and realise that it is just dry, dry, dry.

I have had great fun printing off this plate and will include another print from the same later.

Lynette's Latest

2010-05-24T04:45:00.000-07:00

This is a linocut. Title: "She gardens in all weather". As part of an edition variable, this print represents Spring.

Printmaker: Lynette Palmer

ANOTHER etching from John

2010-05-23T01:54:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest - took a while, it was placed in the ferric chloride about 10 times and proofed each time, so if I can sell an edition of eight, for $1000 each, that should cover the labour costs!

The green bits are hand coloured (watercolour)

Made many mistakes, but hey, I learned a lot too...

Cheers, JM

Lino Cut that I am working on

2010-05-13T05:01:00.000-07:00

Hi to every-one. It has taken me a while to understand how the whole blogging thing works. This is a lino cut that I did a few weeks ago. I don't think that I will alter it at all - although never say never. Russ, my son is the model. He looks a bit like a vampire in this print. I like it. Catch up soon. cheers rps

Here's one I prepared earlier

2010-05-12T22:45:00.000-07:00

I did this one in 08 (I think), but wasn't happy with it, so last weekend, I chopped about 30% off the bottom (to make it roughly square), and touched it up a bit. It's the tree at the south end of Thacker St in OG.

2010-05-08T03:09:00.000-07:00

Today I had a go at printmaking method called "direct drawing", I'd post an image but I haven't worked out how to do that. The "new" Brougham is ok, looks much cleaner than the old place (won't last long!) a few things need ironing out, we'll get used to it in time. Best wishes to Leeanne who isn't well. Get better soon. regards E.

New Work

2010-05-07T04:54:00.000-07:00

The title of this work is "A Parasol is Handy". It is a linocut with a colour background rollup. Printmaker Lynette Palmer.

John's Tonal Print

2010-05-04T17:55:00.000-07:00

Hi folks - here’s my tonal piece, based on a drawing I did last year. Now…. Lets see yours.

Cheers, JM

Thought I would send everyone flowers

2010-05-04T17:07:00.000-07:00

Just picked this morning.

2010-05-03T21:17:00.000-07:00

That was me (Elizabeth) and Sue in the print room this morning, just in case anyone was wondering!

2010-05-03T21:15:00.000-07:00

Spent the morning at Brougham/Brace in the print studio, got some work done but not as much as I'd have liked!!!

Let's get blogging!

2010-05-02T21:29:00.001-07:00

Where is everyone? Do you need assistance? If so, please make contact and I will try to help.

2010-05-01T20:07:00.000-07:00

Oh, I thought I'd posted something on this blog but it seems NOT. Serves me right for wanting to brag! I'll try again.

Last week I entered a print in the Works On Paper at the Brunswick Art Gallery comp. They received 1037 entries from 420 artists, 77 works were selected as finalists. Apparently mine was in the top 100. At least it got noticed!

Happy art making. Elizabeth.

Some are still having problems posting.

2010-04-30T04:11:00.001-07:00

You will need to have a gmail account to be able to post to the blog.

Waterless Lithography

2010-04-27T18:40:00.000-07:00

Playing around yesterday. Expect to see great things from the class using this technique.

"Things of the sea" Hand coloured with watercolour (Only have black ink at this stage). Rubber based inks are required for this technique. Van Son make them, they are not readily available, but you can purchase them at Melbourne Etching Supplies. Happy printmaking. Gaye.

2010-04-27T00:05:00.001-07:00

Sugarlift looks like fun. Do you need to use ground and the ferric?

I thought I would have some clear time this week to get on with my work but life gets in the way. Hopefully tomorrow I can get back to it.

You might want to join this ning network

2010-04-26T17:06:00.000-07:00

http://printuniverse.ning.com/

Welcome onboard John

2010-04-26T00:36:00.001-07:00

Silly me, I couldn't get onto the dashboard because I forgot the email address for this site is different than my other gmail account. Duh! But found it now. Hooray! Blind leading the blind! (Sorry)

New group

2010-04-25T17:58:00.000-07:00

I too am excited about our group's renewed focus. Thanks Gaye.

2010-04-24T21:53:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I am up and running on my very first post to a blog.

It is easy as... thanks Gaye.

And so we begin

2010-04-23T04:45:00.000-07:00

It was decided we could call ourselves Printmakers@Geelong.

All members of this group will be able to post comments, articles and upload images.

This will be great, as it is another way for everyone to see what is happening.

So, post away.