The Green Monotypes
My monotype work keeps evolving, and after working with blue ink I thought exploring other colors would be a good way of keeping things fresh. As we entered spring green seemed to be the right choice, but what kind of green?
Last year I worked on three drawings with a bright, acidic green and I loved how those pieces turned out. This left me thinking about trying a similar color for my monotype prints, but from previous experience that can be a little challenging. Depending on the color, ink can behave differently, especially when adding white to the mixture. After working with the blue monotypes I learned that adding more burnt plate oil can make the ink more pliable.
One late night in the studio, as I prepared myself for printing the next day, I began playing with different color mixtures. I was not sure what I was looking for, all I know is that I didn’t want to use a green straight out of the tube and I didn’t want it to look generic. It needed to earthy, yet have a modern punch. With each mixture I made I would do drawdowns on the same paper I intended to print on. As etching ink settles on the paper it darkens, and the paper I use for my prints has a warm tint, shifting the color a little. I arrived at a bright, yet warm green that looked quite intimidating, especially after applying it on the copper plate. The juxtaposition of the red copper tone next to this green made the color more dramatic and intense. Had I made a mistake? As with running, you have to trust the process, and so I began wiping away ink to reveal my images on the plates.
Nerves and excitement took over as I put the plates through the press. I was not sure how it will turn out, or if I would hate the prints. As I peeled the paper back and away from the first plate I began to see the image slowly appear. The more I pulled the more dazzling it seemed. The green had a nice depth and brightness. It also had a retro modern feel which I think gives the prints a contemporary feel while maintaining a traditional aspect.
Below are the first three monotype prints in this new green mixture, which I hope I can recreate for my next printing session.
Isolated Tree, 2024, monotype on Rives Heavyweight paper, image 6 x 8 inches, sheet 8 1/2 x 11 inches
Left: Reinterpretation of Titian, 2024, monotype on Rives Heavyweight paper, image 8 x 6 inches, sheet 11 x 8 1/2 inches
Right: Arbolado Verde I, 2024, monotype on Rives Heavyweight paper, image 8 x 6 inches, sheet 11 x 8 1/2 inches
