printmaking without a press with Linda Germain

New Series of Mixed Media Prints

2012-01-29T13:29:00.001-05:00

I am playing with this as a title for my current series of mixed media prints. I want to combine techniques without restriction. Sometimes I limit myself to just printmaking, or just gelatin prints and I really don't want to put those limits on this series. I am thinking about layers of ink, paint, text and collage that can reveal what is going on in the mind. I was affirming to look through some old prints and find that some of my work does that already. Happy Printing!

Gelatin Printmaking Workshop @ the Artists Playground

2012-01-28T05:00:00.001-05:00

I am happy to announce that I will be teaching a gelatin printmaking workshop soon:

Play w/Printmaking - Gelatin Prints

@ Artist Playground

the Tannery - Newburyport, MA

Saturday, March 3rd

12:30 - 4:30

$50/person all supplies included teens and adults

Gelatin Printmaking is low tech, fun and fast. This class is for everyone. It is a wonderfully experimental process that gives results that vary from the abstract to the photographic. We will use found objects as“stamps” and “stencils” to work into the ink and create a series of images. To reserve your spot email Linda Germain - lgermainart@gmail.com

I look forward to a great day of printmaking.

Drawing for Inspiration

2012-01-28T04:00:00.000-05:00

I don't love drawing, and I often search for something to draw. I do love loose expressive line and charcoal. I wish that I had a habit of drawing in my practice. It feels like a chore. But I usually do get a payoff when I do draw. When I come back to the sketch a day or two later, I am often pleasantly pleased. I am inspired by those who commit to their drawing practice. Do you have a regular drawing practice? Do you enjoy it? What do you draw? Inspire me Please.

Read: Do it Yourself on Joanne Mattera's Blog

2012-01-27T06:00:00.000-05:00

Joanne Mattera has a great blog - full of conversation, ideas and suggestions about life as an artist. I popped over there today and quickly read the Do it Yourself - Marketing Monday post. FANTASTIC. Now what am I going to make happen? A solo show? A residency? A gallery? I get to choose. Happy Printing!

Field Trip to PEM - Shapeshifting Exhibit

2012-01-26T17:56:00.000-05:00

I took a quick trip to the Peabody Essex Museum to see the Shapeshifting exhibit of Native American Art. We timed it right so we could take a tour with one of the docents. 6 exhibit halls with a fantastic range of expression. Truly something for everyone. I am inspired by folk art, primitive art and art that uses found materials. I am taking a group of kids to the exhibit in February and then we will be creating art inspired by the exhibit @ Lynn Arts.

Trying Freepdfhosting.com

2012-01-25T08:31:00.000-05:00

I made a flyer for the Valentines card making workshop that is coming up on February 1st and I uploaded it to http://freepdfhosting.com/ I wonder why PDF's need their own type of hosting site. oh well. I think the flyer looks good and I will see if it attracts any local art makers. Happy Printing!

Drum leaf book form & gelatin prints

2012-01-24T17:44:00.000-05:00

©linda germain 2012
small drum leaf book of gelatin prints

©linda germain 2012
inside drum leaf book of gelatin prints

I am going to be teaching a gelatin printing and bookmaking workshop for Maine Craft Association at Haystack Mountain School in May. We will be doing a lot in a short period of time so I am playing with different book forms that highlight the qualities of gelatin prints. I printed up some lightly textured pages and put together this book. The female figure is a screen print. I like this form because the single page print works out to be a page spread in the book. Which means I do not have to plan a lot while laying out the pages. I referenced a great book for this drum leaf form. Book + Art by Dorothy Simpson Krause. I am usually so impatient that I do not wait for the cover and pages to dry completely, so they end up warping. So after I took these pictures I put the book back under pressure. I am going to wait..... really I am.

Tiny Gelatin "Stamps"

2012-01-23T21:15:00.000-05:00

©linda germain 2011
shaped gelatin prints

If you look closely you can see the texture on these gelatin prints. I cut circular shapes and inked them and picked them up and printed them. I like to use textured things like bubble wrap, thread, yarn, and wire mesh to make an impression in the ink. My eyes are always peeled for flat surfaces with delicate textures.
HAPPY PRINTING!

Be Fearless

2012-01-23T20:32:00.000-05:00

I am reminding myself of this through out the day. It feels so go when I can move through the day with this thought in mind. Enjoy!

Inspiration from Pinterest

2012-01-22T09:12:00.000-05:00

©linda germain 2012
approx 7 " x 10"
screen print over acrylic

Sunday AM for me and I can't decide whether to love or hate Pinterest. I read that is it one of the top ten social media sites now. I have an account but have not pinned too many pictures. I must not be doing it right because it takes a bit of time. I am definitely inspired by other peoples boards and pins. It is definitely a visual feast of inspiration. Another good thing is my some pins drive visitors to my blog. Here's some inspiration I found this AM:
http://thedesignalphabet.blogspot.com/2010/03/jennifer-mercede.html so fun giraffe

http://pinterest.com/ginia/ She spends a lot of time pinning things so I don't have too.

then to http://pinterest.com/pin/276971445802780235/ a bold sketch book by Martha Rich

and to the Jealous Curator and to Kiki and Polly art by Lisa Golightly.

Now I just have to STOP!!. I already have too many ideas,

paint a wonderful loose giraffe,
just look around the internet for a visual breakfast,
boldly paint my sketchbook,
find a way to offer fun/experiential workshops
and sell prints on Etsy or other venue.

Surprised Again - Taxes and Art can be interesting

2012-01-20T10:27:00.001-05:00

©linda germain 2012
Gelatin plate hearts for printing

Last night at the Artist Professional Tool Box the topic was taxes. I was pleasantly surprised again. No taxes are not something that I love thinking about or doing but Michael Tucci of Ercolini & Company manage to inspire me to put more time into doing my taxes. He even has an intro YouTube video. Happy Printing!

Drawing into Screen Print

2012-01-19T09:02:00.000-05:00

©linda germain 2012
Pencil drawing based on photo image -simplified lines

©linda germain 2012
Trace on to screen and then "paint" the lines with drawing fluid

©linda germain 2012
Coat the screen with filler and let dry.

©linda germain 2012
screen print
approx 7" x 7"

Using Mail Chimp

2012-01-18T16:38:00.000-05:00

So I have taken advantage of Mail Chimp's free account. I have sent a couple of email announcements but I am still learning how to use the program. You can check out my latest email to my local friends about some upcoming valentines card making workshops.

Make it easy for you to find me

2012-01-18T08:43:00.001-05:00

Today I was thinking that I should make if very easy for you to find me. This means if you want to send an email or check out my YouTube videos or Take a class or Buy some art you should be able to do it with very few clicks of the mouse. So I am going to look over my sites and accounts and see where I can improve. Enjoy!

Blogs that inspired me today

2012-01-16T21:28:00.003-05:00

©linda germain 2012
love birds on book page

Do you ever check out a blog and then check out another that was l listed on the first blog and then on and on for an hour or so? I will share my blogging journey - to inspire you.

http://mycuriousteaparty.blogspot.com/ by Julie Howe of the UK with inspiring pins and lots of links to more inspiring artists.......somehow I got to

http://paperponderings.blogspot.com/ by Fiona Dempster Her paper and images just make me want to work with paper and experiment. then I went to

http://missouribendstudio.blogspot.com/ and I was inspired by Patti Roberts-Pizzuto mixed media work and her etsy shop and to

http://wabisabiart.blogspot.com/ and wanting to start the double alphabet project. and then to

Rebecca Crowell's abstract landscapes http://rebeccacrowellart.blogspot.com/.

The more I wander the web the more I start to believe that the goal really is to be true to myself.

Enjoy the journey!

9 things I learned from a new buyer

2012-01-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

©linda germain 2012
thinking
screen print on gelatin print
8' x 10"

I was lucky to have a new buyer come to my studio today. And it was a great opportunity to talk about and present my gelatin prints. I learned:

clean the studio and
create a comfortable place to display the work
ask questions to better understand what the buyer likes and where the art will be displayed
Listen to the answers
Offer matting and framing ideas
yet let the buyer decide
have fun with the conversation
allow the buyer to prepay
give myself a delivery deadline

Happy Printing!

Tiny screen for printing cards

2012-01-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

I wish I had a thermofax machine, but since I do not I try other ways to make screens for mixed media printmaking. I am getting better at the drawing fluid method. It is good for simple line drawings.

transfer your drawing on to the screen with a pencil
"Paint" the pencil lines with drawing fluid
let the Fluid dry - speed up with hair dryer
With a squeegee, pull a bead of screen filler over the whole drawing. You don't want to be able to see through your screen. If you can see light through the screen, then allow to dry and pull another thin layer of screen filler over the image.
Allow filler to dry

gently rinse out the blue drawing fluid
The goal is to have screen filler everywhere except when the drawing fluid is. And the blue fluid is water soluble so it starts to dissolve the more you squeegee the screen.

Now you have a screen ready to print with. For more instructions. Or a dick blick video

Happy Printing!

Paper Art - Exhibit Call for entries @ Lynn Arts

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

On or Of Paper @ Lynn Arts

A Curated Show, open to any artist 17 and older

January 31 – March 7

Gallery Opening: Saturday, February 4, 2-4pm

Juror: StacyThomas-Vickory

Entry Fee: $12.00 per entry,
3 for $30, limit of 3 entries.
If no work accepted 1⁄2 of entry fee will be refunded
Cash Award for Best of Show

Drop-off:
January 19, 10am-8pm,
January 20, 10am-4pm, and
January 21, 11am-4pm
at 25 Exchange Street, Lynn, MA.

For the details go to On of Of Paper - call for entries

Call Susan Halter with questions @ 781.598.5244

Inspired by Carla Sonheim

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

©linda germain 2012
drawing fluid drying on the screen

I took one of Carla Sonheim's online classes last summer - Faces 101. I love the intensity of a one week class. We did 101 face drawings in a week. She is also the author of a fantastic book -

Drawing Lab for Mixed-Media Artists: 52 Creative Exercises to Make Drawing Fun Her style and videos are perfect. I laughed and did some fearless drawing. The structure of assignments motivated me to make drawings, that I could eventually use for printmaking projects. Line drawings are good for the drawing fluid method of screen printing.

Trimming up an Old Gelatin Printing Plate

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

I was ready to toss my gelatin plate today, but I gave it a little more life. I took a razor blade to the edge and got rid of the hard edge. I used a square to make the corners square. But with gelatin, I try not to worry about the funky edges. The razor blade cuts through nice and easily. Sometimes it cuts more smoothly when an up and down motion is used. Happy Printing!

Three steps to a simple card

2012-01-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

©linda germain 2012
collaged card
approx 4.5" x 5.5"

I have a big box of papers on the floor of my studio. It contains "failed" or unfinished prints. This little card has

a tea bag background,
some stamping with a block made of hair ties/elastics
and a few hearts cut out of failed gelatin prints.

I am reminding myself to allow for fearless experimentation. Funny how I have to keep reminding myself. Happy Printing!

Gelatin Prints with Found Objects

2012-01-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

©linda germain 2008
3.5" x 2.5"
gelatin print on book page

Sometimes simple works, like walking instead of driving a car. As I walk to the studio, I see stuff that inspires me, like rusted metal and blocks of wood. This gelatin plate print is

on an old book page
that I over printed with white first to increase the value contrast and
simply pressed with a block of wood 3 times
and layer down 3 threads and
made the print.

To simplify my schedule, I am going to offer Valentine's Card Making workshops in a couple of locations. Check out the workshop page if you are interested. Happy Printing!

In the Studio and @ Sage Art Gallery

2012-01-08T07:00:00.000-05:00

©linda germain
accordion book with gelatin prints, relief prints and collage
approx 2.5" x 3.5"

Today, I walked the 2 miles to my studio. Walking is so good for my head. I get so many ideas. I experimented with some abstract landscapes. I was using the brayer to lay down paint, lift it off and create layers. On a break I walked over to the Sage Art Gallery on Washington Street, Haverhill, Mass. I was talking to Don Herrock the owner about exhibit and teaching opportunities there. So I am going to be the featured artist in March. There will be an opening reception on thursday, March 15th from 6:30 to 8:00 More details to follow - stay tuned :)

Quick links to Gelatin Printing Information

2012-01-07T07:00:00.000-05:00

Summary of helpful posts about gelatin printmaking -

Printing with tissue paper
One way to create focus on a chaotic gelatin print
Change the size of your gelatin plate
Cut up the gelatin plate and play
Beauty and benefits of printing with old cracked gelatin
Combine a gelatin print with a collograph plate
What is a newspaper pick up?
Gelatin Prints on Cotton fabric
Temperature, inks and gelatin printing
Just keep Printing
One way to reconstitute your old gelatin

Artist Professional Toolbox met @ Brown Rudnick and talked copyright law

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

I am participating in a program call the Artists Professional toolbox. It is sponsored by the Greater Boston Arts and Business Council and the Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts. Who would think that talking about copyright law could be fun? Not me and I used to be a lawyer. But Jim Grace was informative and entertaining last night. I have a long list of goals and am finding that things are getting accomplished. I always work better with deadlines and support. Happy Printing!

How do you Capture Inspiration?

2012-01-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

abstract landscape

mixed media 5" x 7"

Today I was at the farm and 5 or 6 big black crows were picking things out of the field, and I wished I had a camera to capture their movements. I was wondering how people capture those moments that just come upon us? Carry a sketch book? A Camera? A phone with a camera? or just be in the moment and draw it out later. The shopper in me says I should get a phone with a camera. I would love to hear about how you capture those moments of inspiration. Enjoy!

Keep Printing until the Voices stop

2012-01-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

©linda germain 2012

abstract landscape - gelatin print

aprox 8" x 10"

Ok.....I am not really crazy and hearing voices, but sometimes when I make gelatin prints and think about how I would teach someone to do what I do there is a very loud conversation going on in my head. I analyze, judge, try to notice and remember things. Today I was playing with abstract landscapes and a painted monotype. In the coming months, I hope to put together a gelatin printing newsletter with ideas and advice, so if you are interested join my mailing list at the top right of this page. Enjoy!

Collaging Gelatin Prints

2012-01-03T07:00:00.000-05:00

little house a gelatin print

aprox 8" x 8"

I was inspired by some children's board books that I was priming for an altered book project. So I dropped everything and dug through the pile of experiments and collaged this little house on a path. It is fun to be inspired by what is before me. Enjoy an accordion book that I made in a similar way.

Printing with Old Gelatin

2012-01-02T08:17:00.000-05:00

©linda germain 2012

aging gelatin creates fantastic marks

I have had this piece of gelatin around since the beginning of December. The wrinkles and holes appear as it ages. The more I use it the more interesting the surface becomes. I did cut in some random lines to see what that would do.

©linda germain 2012

abstract landscape - gelatin plate monotype print

If you try using your old slimy gelatin, be sure to do lots of newsprint pick ups to absorb some of the moisture and slime before you start printing. This is my motto for gelatin printmaking - "Fearless experimentation can lead to extraordinary results." Enjoy!

Gelatin Printing on New Year's Day

2012-01-01T20:15:00.000-05:00

gelatin print with screen print on top

aprox 7" x 10"

I have been playing with gelatin prints in preparation for a workshop that I am teaching @ Haystack Mountain School of Craft for the Maine Craft Association in May. The workshop is for Maine Craft members and it will combine bookmaking and gelatin printmaking. Fun Stuff. Happy New Year!

Why gelatin print on tissue paper?

2011-12-04T18:16:00.001-05:00

7 " x 7" mixed media print

what if I matter?

The girl is printed on tissue paper and collaged on.

I love to make gelatin prints on tissue paper for least 4 reasons:

It is thin and super absorbent
It is inexpensive
It picks up lots of details
It can be collaged into other work very easily.

Stack of gelatin prints on Tissue Paper

So there is often a lot of tissue paper around at this time of year, give gelatin printing on tissue paper a try and let me know how you like it. Use ink or paint that dries fixed, like Daniel Smith water soluble ink.

6 Gelatin Print Tips

2011-11-26T05:58:00.001-05:00

Tiny dancer

2.5" x 3.5"

If you are a gelatin printer like me then you end up with a stack of papers or prints that have potential but are not really a finished product. One way to "finish" a gelatin plate print is to print a final layer of black over the chaotic composition. Here's my 6 gelatin printing tips:

The final composition in black is pleasing. Lay down the stencils so they create a design that you like.
The black is very black
The underlying inks are dry
The underlying "chaos" does not have big white shapes
The underlying "chaos' is mostly textural

You can watch my Paper Doll Dresses video with this new information and you will see several prints made with this technique.

Gelatin prints are really very experimental so I advise to have fun first, try things with an open mind and you will probably invent a technique of your own. If you do, please share it. I always love to see what other people come up with. Enjoy!

Riding the Wave of Thanks

2011-11-25T06:20:00.001-05:00

on the wave - rye on the rocks, nh 2011

I was thinking about all the things I am grateful for and the list is long. And thinking how we are all on this wave of life - just in different spots. I am learning to ride it - so I don't get crushed on the rocks below. I can learn from those around me, a coach and the waves. Sit on the edge, wait for the right wave, decide to go, paddle hard, stand up, enjoy the ride and do it all over again. Happy Day!

Making Prints and Drinking Tea

2011-11-19T10:50:00.001-05:00

What's hot in the Studio?

Well the temperature has dropped in the studio. It was 57 degrees when I got here, but now it is up to 65 degrees. So winter tea is on tap. I am taking a business of art program - Artists Professional Tool Box (APT). It is a 9 month program sponsored by the Greater Boston Arts and Business Council. We have had speakers on goal setting, negotiations, artist's statement and marketing. It is a lot to digest. I am trying to define my focus. Last night I wrote 60 goals off the top of my head. Hmm -I wonder why I feel overwhelmed. One tool I want to add is a newsletter. I am trying out ChimpMail for that service. I have added subscription widget to this blog. If you are interested in getting the newsletter sign up. And I would love to have feedback about the process of signing up. Was it annoying or pleasant? Enjoy!

Monotype prints on the Wall

2011-11-15T20:06:00.001-05:00

Mixed media prints on my studio wall

Lots of holiday shows and sales to participate in. I am happy to put my work out there and hope it goes to a new home. Last night I helped install the holiday exhibit at Lynn Arts. Today I dropped off work for someone else to hang for the Haverhill Holiday Sale.

I am even preparing some small pieces to put in the holiday shop at the farm. I am starting to like finishing the prints. Usually I resist it. Enjoy!

Rust Print with drawing fluid screen print

2011-11-14T08:10:00.001-05:00

Thinking

7" x 7"

Rusted paper with Screen Print

One of my new favorite printing methods is the drawing fluid method of screen printing. I like it for loose style line drawings. I have made several screens out of old shear curtains and I just leave the image on the screen for future printing. There are some good instructions at Dharma Trading. Dick Blick has some good info too. To make the rusted paper I spritz the paper, put it in a flat pan, layer it with my rusty things, and put it under pressure for as long as it takes. Rusting it very experimental and requires patience to let things rust. Sometimes I add salt or vinegar to encourage rusting. Enjoy!

Gelatin Prints and more @ Amesbury Open Studios

2011-11-01T07:51:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2010

winter berries on the ground

We are still with out power and I am sitting under several blankets to the glow of my Mac. My studio has electricity and the farm is running on a generator, so I have places to go with heat and light. The Amesbury studio tour is this Saturday and Sunday. I am looking forward to being in a venue where people are intentionally coming out to see and buy art.

This is where I will be -

14 Cedar Street Studio

#307 w/ Muriel Angelil

Saturday - Nov 5th 11 - 4

Sunday - Nov 6th 12 - 4

I hope to see you there. I will have some gelatin and do some gelatin printing demos and let other try it too. Come out and enjoy the local art.

thinking about the holidays

2011-10-23T19:30:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2011

6" x 6"

mixed media screen print

So I am planning on participating in a few holiday art sales. I have been finishing, listing and labeling small art work this weekend.

The first event is -

When - Sat, Nov 5th 11- 5 and Sun Nov 6th 12-4

Where - Amesbury Open Studios

14 Cedar Street Studios

#307 - w/ Muriel Angelil

What - scarves, note cards and mixed media monotypes

I tried used mail chimp for the email marketing and so far I like how it is going. So much to learn. I spend so much time with the computer. I shut it off only to turn it on a few minutes later.

Scaled down Gelatin Plate - Options

2011-10-07T07:12:00.001-04:00

I realized as I cut up the gelatin plate in the last few days that scale changes everything. It sets new limits and parameters. It is a fun experiment. I need to put in a little time printing and I am sure something new will evolve. So far I figure I can make tiny prints, cards and ATC's with small prints. I would like to come up with a couple of wearable art idea. Enjoy!

Cut up the Gelatin and make Prints

2011-10-06T17:25:00.000-04:00

Cut the gelatin into shapes and print.

So I tried cutting the gelatin plate with a small film canister. I punched out some circles and started to play. I got some fun edges, patterns and layers. I am not sure of the exact application for this method, but I am going to continue to experiment with cutting the gelatin plate into shapes.

Layered gelatin prints with shaped pieces of gelatin.

It was fun to make ink marks and hold the gelatin like a little stamp. I tried a bigger circle and printed some small cards. I love the experimenting.

shaped gelatin for printmaking

This one a cut with the end of a pvc pipe. Big cookie cutters would be interesting to try.

small gelatin print with shaped gelatin and stencil

©linda germain 2011

Mixing Printmaking Methods

2011-10-05T18:38:00.000-04:00

Bird looking for Fall

4" x 6"

Relief print, screen print and a bit of watercolor

Windy day on the farm. I made it into the studio for a a couple of hours. Played with some gelatin prints and made this little print. I think I will make some more. It will be cute for cards. The background is a relief block made with carpet tape and yarn, the black line is a screen that I made using the drawing fluid method and I topped it off with a little watercolor. Enjoy!

Gelatin Prints on the Line

2011-10-04T18:06:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2011

gelatin plate prints on the line working in progress

Well flash floods hit my area of NewEngland and my old volvo ran through some big puddles and now all my warning lights are on. Maybe they will fix themselves.

I made it to the studio, did some sorting and then some gelatin printing. I tried printing on colored paper which i hardly ever do. I liked it. I used the Daniel Smith water soluble block printing ink. And the temperature in the studio was perfect. The ink was transferring nicely from the gelatin plate to paper.

©linda germain 2011

gelatin prints in progress

experimenting with various papers

New dynamic designs available on Blogger

2011-10-02T19:01:00.002-04:00

screen shot on lindagermain.blogspot.com

what do you think?

My head is reeling, and I have a list of could do's in my mind. I went to a seminar about the business of art sponsored by Creative Haverhill on Saturday. I left with new ideas for the business end of my art. Today I went to the open studios at Western Ave Studios in Lowell. Now I have even more money making ideas. My take away, is to use what I find useful and set some short term goals. But I think my daily goals and actions are going to be related to connections and consistency.

Small Works Show @ Lynn Arts

2011-09-22T18:57:00.001-04:00

©linda germain 2010

aprox 5" x7"

I am happy to share that I have 3 pieces in the current show at Lynn Arts. Please join us for the opening of Small Works, this Saturday, September 24^th from 2-4pm. The show features the work of 28 Greater Boston area artists creating beautiful and complex work from a variety of media. Small Works was juried by Lauren Johnston Winsor, Public Art & Donor Development Coordinator for the New England Foundation for the Arts (NEFA). Ms. Winsor has over five years experience coordinating the public art programs at the NEFA in Boston. Working closely with individual artists and non-profit organizations, Winsor develops grant programs and provides technical assistance for public projects locally, regionally, and nationally. Ms. Winsor is active in organizing professional opportunities for the field through a networking and lecture series for artists and the launch of an online forum for public art in New England. She regularly lectures on public art at colleges and universities across Massachusetts and has served as an artist juror for numerous commissions, grants and gallery shows in Attleboro, Boston, and Lowell, MA as well as in Portsmouth, NH.

The Small Works artists include: Brighton, MA: Ronni Komarow, Cambridge, MA: Laura Carmen Arena, East Boston, MA: Maureen O’Connor, Framingham, MA: Carol Blackwell, Georgetown, MA: Sandra Golbert, Haverhill, MA: Linda Germain, Lexington, MA: Ania Gilmore, Lynn, MA: Pauline Bacon, Rolf Flor, Melenie Melanphy, Nadine Mitchell, Steve Negron, Jean Noyes, Heather Meri Stewart, Barry Ridlon, Joseph White, Malden, MA: C-J Stevens, Marblehead, MA: Holly Chin, Betty Ann Downs, Barbara Rafferty, TANYA, Sandra Winter, Melrose, MA: Kathy Mohar, Middleton, MA: Lisa Bohnwagner, Newburyport, MA: Tricia Jones, Salem, MA: Janet Albert, Sara Ashodian, Swampscott, MA: Robin Samiljan

How do you create connections?

2011-09-22T16:37:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2006

connection - photograph

I like to be and work alone, but then at the end of the day still need human contact and connections. The paper stack project with Seth Apter and the Altered page gave me a sense of the possibility of connections with other mixed media artist. But it still feels pretty abstract. I wonder how other artists combine, or balance in person and internet connections?

paper stack - a collaborative effort

2011-09-20T23:18:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2011

stack of prints on tissue paper

Go to the altered page and see how everyone else stack them up. This was a fun challenge. Here's another stack of tea bag papers.

©linda germain 2011

stack of tea bag papers

Piles, stacks and making prints/progress

2011-09-20T16:05:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2011

piles of papers

Seth Apter has a call for paper stacks on his blog the altered page. His photo of his stacks of papers looked great and I thought I can do that, it looks like fun. I have lots of piles that could be made into stacks. What was I thinking? I do have lots of piles of papers that don't look so pretty. I sorted through some prints that I did on tissue paper last week. I will share some pictures tomorrow.

Gelatin Printing Demo by Linda Germain

2011-09-13T18:06:00.000-04:00

inking a gelatin plate for printing

I will have a plate of gelatin at the art and music festival this saturday and will be doing simple demonstrations and you will have a chance to try it to. I hope you can stop by the Eve Rising Music Festival on the upper deck on Merrimack St. Haverhill, Ma 10 AM to 10 PM. Tickets to the festival are $7.00 in advance or $10 at the gate. Proceeds benefit Emmaus, Inc., Kick Cancer Celebration, CSFSM - City Sports Fees for Single Mothers and Songbird Sings for trauma survivors.

Art and Music @ Eve Rising Music Festival this Saturday

2011-09-12T21:27:00.001-04:00

I am happy to share that I will be part of the Eve Rising Art and Music festival this saturday. Proceeds from the festival will benefit several great local charities. I will have art and scarves available for purchase. Let's hope for another wonderful day. For more info see Eve Rising

Printmaking class @ Millvale Folk Art Studio

2011-09-08T17:54:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2010

what if i matter?

relief printing, gelatin printing, acrylic, collage and handwriting

I am pleased to invite you to attend my four week printmaking class this October. You can find all the details on the workshop schedule page. Class size is limited and we will be having fun experimenting with gelatin prints, relief printing, stamping, stenciling and cropping and collaging. I am very excited about this new teaching venue, the Millvale Folk Art Studio. There are facilities for blacksmithing, ceramics, woodworking, painting, fibers and more. Email me with questions or to register - lgcreate@yahoo.com

Multi tasking when Printmaking

2011-09-06T10:20:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2011

What's next?

6" x 6" stencil, stamping and handwriting on dictionary page

What to do next? I have gelatin in the refrigerator for printing, scarves on the line and soaking, blogs and web pages to be updated, proposals to be written, artwork to photograph and I need to go to the farm in an hour. Ok little steps, break it down and do one thing at time. ahhh breathe..... so much for multi-tasking.

Art Fest 2011- Sept 10

2011-09-01T07:30:00.000-04:00

Eat Local - 4" x 6" note card

relief print

I would like to invite anyone in the area to stop by the ART FEST 2011 on the Bradford Common Saturday, September 10 10 AM to 4 PM. I will have lots of gelatin prints, mixed media prints, fiber art, scarves and post cards and note cards.

Hope to see you there.

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Printing with ferns

2011-08-30T20:44:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2011

gelatin printing with ferns on tissue

So, I know everyone prints with ferns when they experiment with gelatin printing, but they do it because the results are awesome. I used the Daniel Smith Water soluble block printing inks and thin tissue paper. It will take a few days to dry and then I can collage the prints on to something. Playing with photo editing options and going a bit crazy! Lightroom, photoshop, Elements, Organizer, Bridge, iPhoto, Aperture So many choices.

Gelatin Printing after a long break

2011-08-29T18:31:00.000-04:00

giraffe play

left to right, screen print as plate, screen print and gelatin print on tissue

Well, I made some gelatin yesterday and played with it today. I cracked the gelatin as I tried to get it out of the pan. (go with the flow - linda) I decided to print on tissue paper and then I can collage the prints into some mixed media pieces that I am working on. It did not take long before I realized why I love gelatin printing. It's all in the details!!! I don't know if this will make sense to you but - the print on the right was created by placing the screen print on the left on the gelatin plate. And all with just hand pressure.

©linda germain 2011

paper stencil and metal stencil as "stamp"

This image does not capture the excitement felt when I stamped into the ink with the hammered metal plate. I love the detail. Oh I am repeating myself.

©linda germain 2011

fresh gelatin ready for printing!

Priming and Prepping

2011-08-28T11:49:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2011

priming surfaces

I have found that surface preparation is giving me a way to get started. I can get pulled in many directions and be overwhelmed by my to do list. I found some peace as I primed some 7" square boxes for my next series. Just doing the work. Hurricane Irene is moving in. We had to board up one window in the shop and I am listening to the drip-drip of a couple of leaks. I still have power.

More Scarves from Dharma to Dye

2011-08-27T11:28:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2011

scarves for dyeing from dharma trading

Yesterday I did a whole day of dyeing fabric with natural dyes such as marigolds, goldenrod, cochineal, and logwood. Friends of mine are experienced in dyeing wool and were experimenting with dyeing fabric. We used clamp resists, pole wrapping, elastics, knotting and twisting and came up this a wide range of results.

©linda germain 2011

dyed with natural dyes

Drawing and Printing

2011-08-24T07:45:00.000-04:00

appro 3" x 5"

eye dropper drawing with tp pick up

Perfect summer day is what they are telling me on the radio today. I must go enjoy it then. I am adding some new drawings to my mixed media prints. I am using the drawing fluid method to make a screen of simple flowers. I had the idea to draw with an eyedropper. We did this in the faces 101 class that I took with Carla Sonheim a couple of weeks ago. Here's some directions from Dharma trading on the drawing fluid method. This face was done with ink and eyedropper and a toilet paper blot. So fun and free.

8 Measures of Success @ the Market

2011-08-21T12:05:00.001-04:00

Haverhill Farmer's Market

Success comes in many forms. There was a lot going on in Haverhill yesterday, the river Ruckus, the celebration at GAR park, the Farmers Market and I am sure plenty of backyard parties and cookouts. One thing I learned this past week from the gallery director at the Clark Gallery in Lincoln, MA is that often people don't buy art on an impulse. They like to see it several times before they buy. They want to know the artist. They are "buying" the artist not just the piece of art. So though sales can be light on one day there can still be many successes:

Meeting new people/buyers
Taking orders for future sales
Making new market connections for classes/venues
Learning more about the local market
Developing people/conversation skills
Bartering with other vendors
Streamlining set up and take down of display
Learning from actions of other vendors

Success comes in many forms. Off to the beach for family, photos, and rocks. Enjoy!

Artist Professional Tool Box a program with the Art and Business Council of Greater Boston

2011-08-19T08:54:00.000-04:00

Last night I attended an informational meeting at Lynn ARTs about the Artists Professional Tool Box program sponsored by
the Art and Business Council of Greater Boston. The program is APT is a nine-month intensive course for a select group of artists to learn and practice marketing, networking, and business skills with the additional benefits of peer group interaction, mentorship, and feedback. D'lynne Plummer, the director of the program gave us an overview of the information covered and answered all of our question. The application deadline is September 15th and the opening weekend is October 28th and 29th. I am so happy the I found out about this course. I think it is coming at a perfect time for me.
gelatin plate monotype above
©2009 linda germain
aprox 3" by 6" on recycled card

Making Small Works in the Studio

2011-08-17T15:38:00.000-04:00

things on the work wall August 2011

©linda germain 2011

Happy to be in the studio these days. Still I feel pulled in other directions but I am breaking goals down into 20 minute steps and getting stuff done. New eye glasses are helping me to see things clearly :) I wrote a proposal for a new series of workshops and it just flowed out!! That's a good day

Bugs and things to do

2011-08-15T18:18:00.000-04:00

Bug

4.25" x 5.5"

layered print ©linda germain 2011

I usually work freely with out expectations and demands. Today I tried to put myself in production mode and just got tight and made "mistakes." It was not a good feeling and not very productive. But rather than call it a wasted day, I am going to take a new approach to "production." Certain activities like cropping existing prints require less creative flow. So tomorrow I am going to produce cards by cropping existing materials. Let's see if it works.

Poll added to my blog about Mac & photo editing

2011-08-14T11:36:00.000-04:00

5 dogs

©linda germain 2009

aprox 2' by3' pastels and charcoal

I could use your help and advise about photo editing and managing software on a Mac. I took the leap and got a Macbook a couple of weeks ago, and I have a lot to learn. I am coming from an old PC, using photoshop 6 to edit and folders by date to manage. Out of 14 GB of documents to transfer from my old computer 13GB are photos and mostly of my artwork. I have been trying out Elements 9, checking out iPhoto, and elements organizer. Thanks.

Prints off to the the Littlest Print Exchange

2011-08-13T17:30:00.000-04:00

©linda germain 2011

on the cutting table

So I am participating in the Littlest Print Exchange, and I sent out may package of prints yesterday. The deadline was the 15th. Why wait 'til the last minute? I don't know. The theme this year is accessibility. How it works is I sent in 51 prints 3" x 3" and I get back a full set of 50 prints, one from everyone in the exchange. This is my first time participating. I am excited to see what I get back. I am thinking of trying to find a local venue to exhibit the portfolio.

Lynn Arts Members Show

2011-08-11T17:55:00.000-04:00

25 Exchange Street Lynn, MA 01901 781.598.5244

www.lynnarts.org

LynnArts

Member’s

Exhibition

Willow Community Gallery

On display now through September 10

Closing reception, Saturday, September 10 , 2-4 pm

With live music by

Clay Ventre and the Bond Girls Enjoy yourself, bring a friend!

Galleries are open:

Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri 10am – 4pm

Thurs, 10 am – 8 pm Sat, 11-4

Closed all holiday weekends

Taking in E-course with Carla Sonheim

2011-08-09T08:40:00.000-04:00

I just signed up for Faces 101 a week long drawing class. I am a day late but I hope I can hop in and have some fun and be inspired. I will start on my own until I get the links and things. I will keep you posted.

Hammering a stencil

2011-08-08T14:29:00.000-04:00

Hammering a Stencil

© linda germain 2011

So last week I went to an antique store in Georgetown looking for old plastic doilies to use as stencils. I did not find any by I did find this metal dish on the free table outside. I took it back to the machine shop and started hammering back and forth to flatten it out. And it works! I really love new free finds.

Time to Breathe

2011-08-07T13:04:00.002-04:00

chaos in the studio

Well my summer kids classes @ Lynn Arts and Northern Essex Community College just finished up. I have this wonderful rainy day to breathe and wade through the clutter in my studio. Time to set some new goals and play with my new Macbook. It will be nice to make some art and get creative. I think I really need to figure out how to make art in short spurts of time. It has been a challenge when my studio looks like it does in the picture above.

15 things I learned doing a craft fair

2011-08-03T16:15:00.000-04:00

Page from Things I know book

I had a great couple of days at the craft fair in Ipswich. I was grateful for all the help that my young nephew gave me in set up and booth attendance. As I caught my breath I started to think about everything that went right in the last couple of days I realized,

People really like my art.
Say yes to opportunities even when I don't fee quite ready
Be nice, saying Hi and talking about the weather can go a long way.
Give first, even if it is just a little shade on a hot day
Let other people help and express gratitude
Smiles and laughs are infectious
Be myself as much as possible
It's not over 'til it's over and not even then is it really final
Give people space
Share what I know or love
Set goals and let them go
It's never a waste
Trying to control everything just makes me crazy
Follow up
Create new goals

That is where I am and what I am thinking about this week. Oh I finally got a Macbook. I am learning to love it a little more each day. But I have lots to learn and I thought I knew it all :).

Come see my art At Olde Ipswich Days this weekend

2011-07-28T20:19:00.000-04:00

Gelatin Print 4" x 6"

Linda Germain

At the last minute I was asked to be part of the Olde Ipswich Days craft fair. So I will be at the South Village Green, Rte 1A Ipswich, MA with my scarves and original prints. I hope to see some old friends and make some new ones.

Haverhill Farmer's Market Saturdays 9-1

2011-07-17T14:59:00.001-04:00

Scarves on the Line

We had a good day at the Haverhill Farmers Market. It was opening day and there were 20 or so vendors with fresh herbs, veggies, bread, honey, tasty sweets and more. I had note cards, small mixed media prints and my hand dyed shibori scarves. The Haverhill Art Association was represented by Mike Gould and myself. Several people told me it was their first time to the Market even though they live in Haverhill and the market has been around since the 1970's. Maybe it was the new location or maybe more folks want to eat local. I look forward to next week. I saw old friends and made some new ones too. That has to be a good day. Stay Cool!

Smile...

2011-07-09T12:08:00.000-04:00

smile

3" x 3" relief print

Do I stay in the studio or go to the beach? There are only so many good beach days.... Can I do both? enjoy!

What inspires?

2011-07-03T08:25:00.001-04:00

Happy 4th of July! Well I am inspired by other artists work and accomplishemens. I came accross the work of America Martin today. I love the bold, expressive black line. Funny how we find things on this big old internet. I am going to to make some bold expressive black line drawings. Enjoy.

Gelatin Printing with Old Gelatin

2011-06-11T16:45:00.000-04:00

Gelatin Plate Print made with "stencils and stamping"

"Untitled " - gelatin print - aprox 8" x 10"

Don't throw away your old and decaying gelatin plate. I love to use it when it starts to get all the little holes and cracks in it. I can't control how it falls apart. So sometimes it decays in a beautiful way and other times not so much. I like to do a lot of newsprint pick ups to absorb the slime and to get the plate ready for printing.

In the print above I used Daniel Smith water soluble Block Printing ink, blue with some black. I made the circles and the lines by "stamping" into the inked plate. Stamping lifts off some of the ink. I think I use a dress pattern wheel to make the dotted lines. The white grasses where created by placing the grass on the plate. Notice that the grass is very thin and creates interesting negative space. Then place the paper on top and print with hand pressure. All the little holes, the subtle changes in blue/black color where created by the decaying gelatin plate.

Video of more gelatin prints made with decaying gelatin. Enjoy!

Gelatin Print with a Collograph Plate

2011-06-05T17:38:00.000-04:00

gelatin plate print aprox 4" x 6"

This print shows the great detail that I can get with the gelatin plate printing process. The texture in the background is created by stamping the surface of the inked gelatin plate with a collograph plate. The collograph plate is simply a cd covered with bits of masking tape. The image of the girl is simply a paper stencil. I coat the stencils with matt medium so they last longer. More gelatin printing information. Enjoy!

Simple book for fun

2011-05-16T17:58:00.000-04:00

Simple book with flaps and folded pages

approx 2.5" by 3.5" when all folded up

After working on the farm on this rainy day, I get to the studio and check my email and blog and happily find a post by Susan Kapuscinski Gaylord She has a great webstite Making books with Children and has several books on the subject. So I just had to try this folded flap book she calls the I am....book. I grabbed some papers and followed her great instructions and discovered why I might be working with birds in my latest series. Fun Fun Fun.

Creating a series of Mixed media prints

2011-05-13T17:46:00.000-04:00

Prints in Progress

So I just joined a critique group at the Essex Art Center and my thoughts are spinning. The whole process is designed to support each artist and to give the artist control over the form structure and focus of the crit. We have a great facilitator, Cathy Mclaurin and a committed group of artists. I am excited. Each time I start a class or group I am reminded of how much that kind of support helps me to get in to the studio and do the work. My goal is to create a series of black bird prints. I am going to do the work and ask questions after. I think I will research birds and art a bit too.

Stamping with Gesso

2011-05-08T19:22:00.002-04:00

mixed media print on cotton with machine stitching

approx 8" x 10"

I came across this process to stamp/stencil with gesso in two great blogs in the last 2 days. Jane LaFazio has a tutorial and Linda Dunn took a workshop with Alexandra Sheldon. So you don't have to hit me over the head again, I tried it. I am in love. The image below is the before picture. I did not really like it so I took it off the wall and used a stencil to gesso the circles and the glazed the whole thing with gold fabric paint. I darkened the bird. It still may not be done, but I am liking how it is improving.

Stencilling and Stitching

2011-05-06T17:26:00.000-04:00

Untitled Mixed Media Print on Shibori Dyed Cotton

aprox 8" x 10'

A light bulb went off in my head when I came up with the title of my last post rough around the edges. Stop fighting the finish and let the edges be rough. I work messy and I love the process, and I was trying to make "messy" look neat. So with the last 2 pieces last I have posted I let the edges be rough. I think this leaves me with options too. I am feeling better and I little excited about this next series of prints.

Rough around the Edges

2011-05-03T19:40:00.001-04:00

Mixed media print on Newsprint with machine stitching

So I like to use what I have in my art making. And I am trying to figure out a way into a new series. I like the idea of a daily piece. I think I need some structure, boundaries or form to help me commit to the project. I got the book the Uncommon Quilter by Jeanne Williamson at the Library today and was inspired by her commitment. I started with a paint splattered piece of newsprint and paper scrapes from the floor of my studio, added the birds, some stamping and eligible writing. I machine stitiched it with a piece of blanket for the middle and brown bag for the back. I always feel better when I just do something.

Black birds, shibori and stitching

2011-04-17T19:48:00.000-04:00

Untitled each 5.5" x 5.5 "

original print on shibori dyed fabric with machine quilting

I love these bird stencils that I cut. I was afraid to ruin the print below and have been torturing myself with how to finish it off. So I made these small prints and played with machine quilting. They look good in a 10" square frame with a mat. I have been thinking about why I might be attracted to the crow/raven. They are everywhere, especially at the farm. They are known to be intelligent, communicators, soloist and from the dark side of self.

Mixed media Prints on Shibori dyed fabric

2011-03-27T20:54:00.002-04:00

Lessons 8"x 8"

Mixed media print on shibori dyed fabric

I am determined to use some of the fabric that I have been dyeing in the shibori class that I am taking. I picked two of my least favorite dyed pieces and just started stencilling and writing on the surface. I have to say I am pleasantly pleased. I mounted the first two on a box. They look good but you kind of lose the feel that is is fabric. I don't think that I want to go the quilt route. so I guess I will just keep playing.

Untitled 8" x 8"

Mixed media print on shibori dyed fabric

Dyed Fabric and Bookmaking

2011-03-16T17:45:00.001-04:00

So I decided to try making a Coptic stitch book with some of the shibori dyed fabric. It is not perfect but it is good enough for a sketchbook. It is sitting on a really fun piece that I am using as a shawl/scarf. I used aluminum circles and clamps to create the resist. Enjoy!

Shibori - Clamp Resist Experiments

2011-03-13T13:39:00.001-04:00

clamp resist method of shibori

I am taking a fun class at Essex Art Center taught by Rachel Hunt Durocher. We are getting to try out many different ways to create resists and dye fabric. We are using MX fiber reactive dyes and mercerized cotton. But you know me I always like to try something else or break the rules or do what I am told not to do. So I have been trying to dye cotton and linen that I had lying around the studio. Some times it works and some times it does not.

Clamp resist on rusted fabric

This piece above look better in person, but I love it. I had rusted the fabric a few weeks ago and added a clamp resist yesterday. Now I just have to figure out what to do with it. Below are my supplies for the clamp resist.

supplies for clamp resist

Simple relief prints, rust prints & more

2011-03-12T18:03:00.002-05:00

Untitled 2011

screen print on rusted paper

I have been playing with foam relief prints in preparation for some kids classes and experimenting with rusting fabric just because I love it. Today I was playing with a blocking fluid screen print. With so many experiments it is hard, no impossible to see the top of any of my work tables.

what I have been up to board

24" x 36"

I really like to play with out having to end up with a product. Is that strange? Sometimes I think so and then get into a rut about having to have great finished work.

Lost and Found - Gelatin Print exhibt by Linda Germain

2011-01-20T16:27:00.001-05:00

Installation in progress @ Willow Gallery, Lynn Arts, Lynn, MA

In between the snow storms, I was able to get down to the gallery and install the gelatin print exhbit. The light and the windows in the gallery space is fantastic. I was able to hang 19 gelatin plate monotype prints. There is a space for my printmaking video to run on a loop. I have published a book in conjunction with the show and left other bits of inspiration in the gallery as well.

Lost and Found exhibit by Linda Germain being installed.

I was well prepared to install the show and learned that a level is crucial to getting things straight. I am getting excited for the opening next Saturday, Jan 29 from 2 to 4. Directions to Lynn Arts.

Rusted Fabric Gelatin Print

2011-01-05T19:45:00.000-05:00

untitled gelatin plate print on rusted fabric aprox 7" x 7"

Well I was trying to salvage some gelatin that I made around December 10th. I had about 5, 8" by 10" pieces and was blotting off the excess water and slime to see if I could still print with them I was amazing how each piece aged differently. Some were mostly slime and others were still mostly solid. I had a few minutes and decided to try making a few prints. I loved the one above.

What is a Newsprint Pick up in Gelatin Printing?

2011-01-04T20:12:00.001-05:00

I use the term newsprint pick up a lot when I talk about gelatin printmaking. So I thought I would explain what I mean. I simply place newsprint over the gelatin to pick up unwanted ink. I don't rub the newsprint. I just lay it down flat and burnish with my hand. I do this over and over again with clean newsprint to pick up unwanted ink. In the example above I am placing the newsprint over the spider like stencil. So I will end up picking up the ink around the stencil as shown in the image below.

Notice that there is no ink left on the plate except for the red ink under the stencil. Then I remove the stencil and will be left with the ghost image as shown below.

The ghost image can be very delicate and detailed depending on the type of stencil that you use. It can also be unpredictable and frustrating if you have rigid expectations. More gelatin printing tips.

I used "newsprint pick ups" on this print to print several ghosts on top of each other with out too much plate ink.

Still Making Gelatin Prints in the New Year

2011-01-01T18:22:00.000-05:00

Gelatin Print

7" x 7" Untitled

Well the New Year has arrived and I am back in the studio. I am framing and finishing some work. I must confess though it was nearly 60 degrees today and I went to the beach. The family cottage suffered a little damage in the last storm and today was a great day to make repairs. I strolled the shore line looking for rocks for my upcoming exhibit Lost and Found @ the Willow Community Gallery in Lynn.

Shelia Hicks exhibit @ Addison Gallery of American Art

2010-12-03T18:53:00.001-05:00

'round and 'round
14" x 9"
gelatin print

Today I visited the Shelia Hicks exhibit at the Addison Gallery of American Art in Andover, MA. The show spans 5 or 6 exhbit rooms and includes work from the 1950's to present. She included work from the very small to the very large. The twisted and woven work was inspiring. I have been working with fabric lately but not putting it into a final expression.

Printmakers Show @ McCoy Gallery

2010-11-29T16:25:00.000-05:00

Please join Linda Germain and her printmaker friends at the McCoy Gallery, Merrimack College, 315 Turnpike Street, North Andover, MA on Sunday December 5th from 2 to 4 in the afternoon for the opening of the printmaking exhibit.

Show runs from December 3, 2010 to February 1, 2011.

Gallery hours are 9 to 4 Monday through Friday.

Screenprinting Cards Workshop

2010-11-14T19:42:00.000-05:00

Saturday I will be teaching a one day workshop on screenprinting cards with paper stencils at Essex Art Center in Lawrence. Once I get going with the screen printing it is hard to stop. I have been playing with colors of paper and images and sizes. The class is full and we should have a action packed day.

Getting Art out There

2010-11-11T16:40:00.000-05:00

gelatin print 7" x 7"

So I have been slowly finishing some gelatin prints and getting them into frames and mats. I have a couple of piece on display at the chowder house in Marblehead Mass, with my artist's way friends. Our exhibit will run through November 30, at the Marblehead Café and Chowder Company, 9 Bessom Street, Village Plaza, Marblehead. Our opening will be Tuesday, November 16, from 5:30-7:00 P.M. Soon I will have a couple of pieces at the McCoy Gallery @ Merrimack College with my printmaker friends. I have a few pieces on display at the Essex Art Center right now.

Matting and framing Gelatin Prints

2010-10-21T13:01:00.000-04:00

I have been cutting mats and framing prints. In an effort to bring my carefree creative spirit into finishing and presenting my prints, I had box frames made and mounted several prints on the boxes. I tried for weeks to convince myself that the boxes were going to work, but they did not. They did not complement the prints. So I took them off the boxes and started cutting mats and framing them the traditional way. Luckily I used studio tac to adhere them to the boxes so the prints came off easily. I will have to find a new use for the boxes. I am using Crescent ragmat and it seems to dull my blades after cutting just one mat. I have checked my guide and adjusted the blade several times.

Gelatin Prints on boxes

2010-10-04T15:44:00.000-04:00

I am making progress. I had friend make me some boxes for my Lost and Found show that is coming up this winter. I have been working on finishing them so that I can mount my prints on the face of the box. The repetitive nature of this step has been helpful in moving the project forward.

Gelatin Prints on Cotton Fabric

2010-09-19T13:20:00.000-04:00

gelatin plate print on cotton fabric

7" by 7"

One of the qualities that I love about gelatin printmaking is the ability to get great detail with out having a press. The detail is increased when the gelatin is smooth and fresh, the paper/fabric is smooth and absorbent, and the moisture of the ink and the paper/fabric is just right. I have been spritzing the cotton fabric and blotting it with newsprint to increase the tranfer of details. The blue piece above was made with a piece of yarn. Oh! I found that is it a good idea to heat set with an iron in between layers. That will minimize the loss of details on the first layer. More gelatin printing tips. Got to go play.

Accordion Book Class @ Essex Art Center

2010-09-14T17:21:00.000-04:00

I am pleased to share that I am offering an accordion book workshop at the Essex Art Center. Just one day and you will be showing off your art in a book form. These are the details:

Essex Art Center

56 Island St. Lawrence, MA 01840

Tel: 978-685-2343 Email: info@essexartcenter.com

Date: Saturday, September 25th, 10 am -2 pm, $40

We will create the basic form and then use collage and printmaking techniques to complete the book. Bring your our imagery and ideas and we can incorporate them into the process. The accordion is a great way to show off a series of prints, tell a story or display small artwork. EAC provides materials. We need at least 4 people to run the class so call, ask questions and sign up early.

Two new artmaking habits

2010-09-13T17:57:00.000-04:00

mixed media artist's book

aprox 7" x 14"

Two tools that I learned at Haystack that I want to build into my art habits are:

Use a free write to focus an idea for a project. We used a word or a sentence as prompt and then wrote off the top of our heads for 10 minutes or so. This is not something that I would usually do but I think it will come in handy for some upcoming projects.
Choose a small object to draw everyday. Simply draw it, date it and file it away. Sas Colby did this with her "Bunny Series."

I have a show of gelatin prints coming up in January and the theme is lost and found. I think I will use the free write to find some language to talk about the prints and the theme. I have started drawing an old doll that I had as a kid. She is in pretty rough shape, but I am committed to drawing her each morning.

Two Gelatin Print Tips

2010-09-12T19:10:00.000-04:00

I may have said this before, but I think it is very helpful. The more prints I make the more I would like to be able to predict the outcome. So lately I have been taking the gelatin out of the refrigerator and covering it with newsprint and letting it warm up to room temp. It is about 68 -70 degrees these days.

Today I experimented with the two sides of my gelatin. The print on the left was made on the surface that had been exposed to the refrigerator air for a week or so. You can see that the ink did not transfer to the paper as well as the one on the right. The print on the right was made with the underside of the gelatin. I flipped the gelatin over and the surface was "moister" (had more water in it.) So bottom line when things are not working they way I like I start asking questions and try to figure what is affecting the transfer of ink. Check out my gelatin printing tips page. These are factors that I am aware of

Room temperature
age of gelatin
smoothness of the surface of the paper
moisture in gelatin
moisture in ink
type of ink
method used to burnish
type of paper
type of stencils and tools used

20 ways to Put a little "Haystack" in your day

2010-09-10T10:25:00.001-04:00

5" x 6" X 2" copitc stitch book with sea shells and prints

Okay so Haystack is really a whole experience not just one outstanding class, meal, lecture or accomodation. Today when I was walking in the woods by the lake and putting a little "Haystack" in my day I started thinking about all the ways I could bring that Haystack experience into my days. Here's what I came up with so far.

1. Get up when the sun or cold wakes you up.

2. Eat good food at 8 AM , Noon, and 6PM

3. Don’t use the tv, telephone or internet or radio

4. Don’t talk on your cell phone around others or in your studio space

5. Listen to other artists talk about their art for 2 hrs a day

6. Use poetry and writing to give you a focus

7. Walk in the woods

8. Swim in the ocean

9. Sit by the sea

10. Sleep on a very firm twin bed

11. Eat Fruit or cookies anytime you feel like it

12. Be in your studio at set times like 9-12 or 1-4

13. Find an art friend and talk about your process/project

14. Work less and make art more

15. Make your art your priority (in some way/at some time)

16. Drink water instead of soda

17. Put your name on your beer

18. Share wine at supper with your friends

19. Eat 3 healthy veggies at lunch and dinner

20. Be open to learning from everyone you meet today

Three great things about Haystack - adventures in the transparent book

2010-09-09T15:27:00.000-04:00

Three things that were great about Haystack - the people, the place and the project. It was still 90 degrees all week but I had the crystal clear ocean to cool down in.

My routine was

get up when I woke up,
do morning pages by the shore or in the woods,
breakfast at 8:00 - wonderfully prepared for us
in the studio by 9 AM to noon for demos, sharing, instruction or artmaking
noon Lovely lunch - which I ate fast so I could get in a
walk to the point and a refreshing swim in the ocean
1:30 - 4:30 More studio time with classmates and instructors
5:00-8:00 my work study duties in the kitchen (with time off in the middle to eat)
8:00-9:00 Artist's talks
After that either crash or work in the studio

It was a busy week and next time I would try to go for 2 weeks. I had just got settled in to the routine and was able to work until 2 AM and it was thursday and I had to think about leaving in 2 days.

dining hall at Haystack