Artwork: Block Print
Exhibition Text:
”Escapism” is an expression of ones relation with reality and fantasy. As there is presence of two relaties which contrasts though live amoungst each other. There is no interpersonal connection, as it normally not seen. This is a sutel commentary on society relations with reality. As each individual holds a perseption of reality. Influences include artwork by Bertha Lum and Patrick Siler. The theme, elements and lines where inflicted by these artist. The piece does not manipulate other works.
Inspiration/Critical Investigation:
A source on inspiration for the artwork made is Bertha Lum’s “Untitled”. This piece was created within 1927. The artist follows a Japanese style of wood block printing. Though the artist herself is American, there is still of presence of culture within the piece. The Japanese culture within the piece is present though the artworks techniques and elements. As the artist used old legends and the culture as inspiration for her colored woodblock prints. In relation with the style used, the lines are exact and thin. This type of block print and used curves in a fabric like texture in order to build up density. The artwork is consistently clean in its used of color and line. This use of precision allowed for smoother curved lines and a soft image. The presence of color within her pieces are also light, and follow a soft and exact tone. As this type of block printing does not use harsh monochrome contrast. There is also a use spacing and ratio, that draws the viewers attention. The contrast within the piece itself is unnoticed by those passing. In general, the use of cultural highly impacts the artwork created in both style, technique and inspiration.
Another source of inspiration for the artwork is Patrick Siler’s “Untitled”. This piece was made amongst his woodcut print series during 1985-1986. The American artist follows a monochrome use of block prints. Siler refers to his work presenting “...subconscious images and stories...”. This aspect can be seen within the particular inspiration used for the piece. Even within the entirety of his woodcut print series there is a presence one contrasting elements. This is primary done though subconscious beings in the reality of world. Within the same series this is also done with idols and celebrities being gawked at by mass audiences. Within the series itself there is a constant contrast being the everyday people and those to a higher a higher standard. Though within the particular piece of inspiration this is done though unnatural placements within the background being disregarded. The reality continues, no matter what is occurring in the background. The techniques used within the piece as emphasize this aspect. As the monochrome tone and harsh lines that are carved convey a dark tone. The lines used are harsh and straight, while the curves are wide. The use of space within the piece is filled, as no large areas are left blank. Rather they are filled with the subconscious elements and nature to a higher ratio. Overall this piece uses the woodcut prints in order to convey contrasting natures, which is present though tone, texture and ratio.
Another source of inspiration for the artwork is Patrick Siler’s “Untitled”. This piece was made amongst his woodcut print series during 1985-1986. The American artist follows a monochrome use of block prints. Siler refers to his work presenting “...subconscious images and stories...”. This aspect can be seen within the particular inspiration used for the piece. Even within the entirety of his woodcut print series there is a presence one contrasting elements. This is primary done though subconscious beings in the reality of world. Within the same series this is also done with idols and celebrities being gawked at by mass audiences. Within the series itself there is a constant contrast being the everyday people and those to a higher a higher standard. Though within the particular piece of inspiration this is done though unnatural placements within the background being disregarded. The reality continues, no matter what is occurring in the background. The techniques used within the piece as emphasize this aspect. As the monochrome tone and harsh lines that are carved convey a dark tone. The lines used are harsh and straight, while the curves are wide. The use of space within the piece is filled, as no large areas are left blank. Rather they are filled with the subconscious elements and nature to a higher ratio. Overall this piece uses the woodcut prints in order to convey contrasting natures, which is present though tone, texture and ratio.
Planning:
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Process/Techniques/Experimentation:
Process
In order to begin the block print, a sketch may be done initial and the surface to be carved onto. This will serve as a guide for the areas, line, shape and depth to be carved. Overall the sketch done lightly on the area, will serve as a basic guide. As throughout more detailed may be added and cervices may be made deeper. When carving different tools are available to use in order to achieve varying forms. As can be seen within the first image there are four options present. As they rise in width and differ in form, from rounded to more pointed tips on the tools. For instance slim and pointed tips should be used for areas of more precise detail. While areas of larger region to crave, should use a wider round tip, in order to achieve depth. The carving process requires attention to detail. There should also be consideration present before carving an area, as to which specifications are required to achieve the wanted form. In order to begin carving a wood block with stoppers at each end will be used. This will help avoid injuries from the force of the carving tool used. It was also allow for more stability when carving into the carving block. Again, this process requires attention to detail, in order to avoid errors and to achieve the wanted form and depth. The more detail present within a particular piece, the more time it will take to achieve the fine lines of the correct depth. As if the lines are not created deep enough they will not appear on the print. It is also not wanted for consistent holes carved through the piece, as the shows it was carved too deep. A medium between the two is found when carving is begun.
After the carving process is completing, the printing process is now started. A completed carved block is now used in order to create the prints. In this instance a water soluble block print ink, in the color black is to be used to make the prints. A metal plate and brayer are also needed and used to spread the ink evenly onto the block. To begin the ink is placed onto the plate, as can be seen within the second image. Next the brayer is then used to evenly spread the ink onto itself and the plate. This has created a base of ink to be spread onto the carved block. Once sufficiently carved in the ink, this amount is then transferred onto the carved block. The more ink placed the darker the print will be. While if less ink is placed the print created will be lighter and have tiny splotches within not filled areas. A medium between the two can be found by adding the right amount of ink for the print. Once this is completed a sheet of paper is then placed on top of the carved block. A baron is then used in order to press the ink onto the paper, thus creating print. The baron is rubbed smoothly across the sheet of paper, on top. Once this is done sufficiently enough to transfer the ink. This process and the tools used can be seen within the seventh image. The paper is then removed revealing the print. If dissatisfied with the print created, the print making process may be related with the same carved block. If too much ink was initially added to the surface, then the water soluble ink may be removed with a simple rinse and dry. Overall the print making process is dependent upon the artist wanted forms, depth of line and darkness of the print. Once the wanted print or prints are archived they are to be placed on the drying rack.
After the carving process is completing, the printing process is now started. A completed carved block is now used in order to create the prints. In this instance a water soluble block print ink, in the color black is to be used to make the prints. A metal plate and brayer are also needed and used to spread the ink evenly onto the block. To begin the ink is placed onto the plate, as can be seen within the second image. Next the brayer is then used to evenly spread the ink onto itself and the plate. This has created a base of ink to be spread onto the carved block. Once sufficiently carved in the ink, this amount is then transferred onto the carved block. The more ink placed the darker the print will be. While if less ink is placed the print created will be lighter and have tiny splotches within not filled areas. A medium between the two can be found by adding the right amount of ink for the print. Once this is completed a sheet of paper is then placed on top of the carved block. A baron is then used in order to press the ink onto the paper, thus creating print. The baron is rubbed smoothly across the sheet of paper, on top. Once this is done sufficiently enough to transfer the ink. This process and the tools used can be seen within the seventh image. The paper is then removed revealing the print. If dissatisfied with the print created, the print making process may be related with the same carved block. If too much ink was initially added to the surface, then the water soluble ink may be removed with a simple rinse and dry. Overall the print making process is dependent upon the artist wanted forms, depth of line and darkness of the print. Once the wanted print or prints are archived they are to be placed on the drying rack.
Techniques
Various techniques were used in order to create block print. As different types of carving tools were used when making the carved block. With the speedball carving tool, four different types of tips were provided. For instance tip number one was to be used for fine lines. This is due to the tips sharp and thin tip, in which detail may be achieved. Another type of tip was also present, this was rounded. This particular op could be used for rounded detail and areas in need of more carving. This tool provided less detail, though covered more surface area than the finer tips. Even when carving with finer tips, one still had to be weary of the depth. As the finer line would not easily show within the print. This a technique of maintaining the fine line and depth was used throughout. Various tools during the process of carving aided in the out one of cleaner prints.
Reflections/ Critique |
Evaluations |
In reflection to the process and the artwork made, changes could be made in order to improve. At times more of a focus could have been present when the block was being carved. As this point is vital to aching a good clean print that shows all of the wanted lines. While also holding a good depth of color and contrast between the areas carved and the space. As stated previously, the depth of the lines is important,but should also not hinder the wanted form of line. At times this was difficult to achieve. In the future more practice could have been done in this aspect. Within the initial design less lines of fine detail could have also not been placed within significant areas. In order to critique adjustments could be made the depth of some lines and the design standards initially set for this particular medium. In an overall reflection there could have been more attention to detail in some areas and aspects of the block print created.
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Bertha Lum’s raised line hand colored woodcut, was a source of inspiration for the piece made. As Lum’s artwork impacted my own and the elements present within it. As there is a similar concept of theme and focus within the pieces. As the ignored element is held at a higher ratio of focus. When it comes to the elements of line within the piece, Lum’s use was influential. As the she used thin, curved and detailed lines, in which I similarly used within my artwork. Though in contrast these fabric formed lines served as a center for her artwork. While mine just uses these elements of line through the piece. Another contrast between the piece created and the source of inspiration is the use of color. As Lum uses color purposely in order to highlight aspects of her artwork. It also creates a softer tone within the woodcut. While my artwork uses harsher monochrome tones, that contrast between black and white. Overall aspects of Lum’s work served as an inspiration for the piece created.
Patrick Siler served as another source of inspiration for the artwork created. As Siler’s woodcut print impacted the artwork I created for my print. Initially the medium used for both artworks is similar in technique and style. This also leads to similar harsh lines and use of color. As Siler use black ink which creates a monochrome contrast within the piece. Which is also present te within my artwork. Lastly the concepts of larger ratios was influential to the artwork I created. Though there is a contrast to detail between the artworks. As Siler focuses on an abundance of occurrences within one piece. While mine has one primary draw of attention. Siler’s woodcut also uses more white space and holds a light source that impacts the contrast within it. In general Siler impacted the artwork I created, which allows for similarities. Though there are contrast present between the two pieces in expression and contrast. |
Ideas
The ideas written out, are the planning and base for the artwork made. As outlines and specifications are set as to what the artwork is to be. The steps and tools to be used are also outlined. As in particular the type of texture to be made and a sketch of the form. There is also an initial set color for piece which goes on to correlate with the tone. The two artist used for inspiration are then outlined. Important information of each artist is written in regards to personal information and the type of art produced. The initial contrast between the artist is also apparent when comparing the diffrent use of aspects. As Lum focuses on Japanese culture within her prints. Though Siler uses a more know style of blockprint, with a monochrome tone. Though these differ both artist still use a smilar theme of reality in relation in imagentation. Overall these ideas severed as a base outline for the artwork produced.
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Experimentation
Expermination was conducted between carving and printing with this initial print. As experimentation was done with the depth of carving in its relation to the ink. Through this process I learned of the nessatiy of having deep and yet fine line, in order for them to show up within the print. Thus this first carved block print also allowed for expemination with the tools and the effects that they had. There was also practice on percion and achieving wanted lines through detail. This first print served as expemination between the techniques and the depth in line.
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Multiple prints were made of the same carved block in order to experiment with the depth of line and darkness in the print. As through this process Ieanred that lighter prints showed finer lines, though also presented unwanted splotches. Though darker prints did not show finer line but rather highlighted the carved line of greater depth. There were also not an excessive amount of splotches present. Rather there was a more solid black color that allowed for better contrast. Even though the same carved block was used for each print made, there was still varying levels of ideals present within each print. Through this expemination faults from carving were noticed. There was also regognition of the differing the effects that the prints holds through the experimention.
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Reflection:
I developed and refined my skills throughout the process of this project. As through the block printing process trials and errors did occur. The success with my piece is the contrast in color present between the shades. As there is a black and white difference in monochrome tones. This was a wanted aspect, that is reflective upon my inspiration. Though this was not easily achieved. As prior to my final print, trail and error was conducted in order to achieve a well ratio. As the ratio between colors could vary and express different aspects within different prints of the same carving. Overall this particular success was only achieved through previous trials.
Though errors were still prevalent within the piece despite the success. One particular error was the ratio in size of the carving. As this basic part of the print to be made, held and initial importance. At times areas were not deep enough, when carved out prior. This error was particularly relevant with fine, and thin lines. Thus this issue could have been solved with wider and deeper cuts. It could have also been fixed with progress and carefully executed thin cuts. Overall this error was. So relevant issue during the print making. Though there were errors despite the success, both developed my ability. As they allowed me to understand and fix the errors occurring in order to produce a better print of the same base.
Though errors were still prevalent within the piece despite the success. One particular error was the ratio in size of the carving. As this basic part of the print to be made, held and initial importance. At times areas were not deep enough, when carved out prior. This error was particularly relevant with fine, and thin lines. Thus this issue could have been solved with wider and deeper cuts. It could have also been fixed with progress and carefully executed thin cuts. Overall this error was. So relevant issue during the print making. Though there were errors despite the success, both developed my ability. As they allowed me to understand and fix the errors occurring in order to produce a better print of the same base.
ACT:
Clearly explain how you are able to identify the cause effect relationship between your inspiration and its effect on your artwork?
-The inspiration used allowed for an in-depth exploration of differing uses of the topic of reality. As they also impacted the elements, ratio and texture used within the piece made. Siler served as inspiration that impacted the texture of the artwork produced.
What is the overall approach the author has regarding the topic of your inspiration?
-The overall approach focuses on contrasting realities. These are presented thorough ratio and texture of the elements. Though the techniques used differ, there is still this common theme.
What kind of generalization and conclusions have you discovered about people, ideas, culture, ect. while you researched your inspiration?
-I’ve made a generalization on presentation of relality in relation to imagination differing across people. As culture hold there own mythology. While individuals have there persona perception.
What is the central idea or theme around your inspirational research?
-The central idea around my research focuses on contraisng realties. As a higher being is present within the normalties of reality.
What kind of inferences did you make while reading your research?
-Each artist had a base of information given on there history, inspiration and the type of art they created. Though when it came to there particular artworks, there was minimal information given as to why. So inferences in that aspect where made in correlation to there values and history.
-The inspiration used allowed for an in-depth exploration of differing uses of the topic of reality. As they also impacted the elements, ratio and texture used within the piece made. Siler served as inspiration that impacted the texture of the artwork produced.
What is the overall approach the author has regarding the topic of your inspiration?
-The overall approach focuses on contrasting realities. These are presented thorough ratio and texture of the elements. Though the techniques used differ, there is still this common theme.
What kind of generalization and conclusions have you discovered about people, ideas, culture, ect. while you researched your inspiration?
-I’ve made a generalization on presentation of relality in relation to imagination differing across people. As culture hold there own mythology. While individuals have there persona perception.
What is the central idea or theme around your inspirational research?
-The central idea around my research focuses on contraisng realties. As a higher being is present within the normalties of reality.
What kind of inferences did you make while reading your research?
-Each artist had a base of information given on there history, inspiration and the type of art they created. Though when it came to there particular artworks, there was minimal information given as to why. So inferences in that aspect where made in correlation to there values and history.
Bibliography
"BERTHA LUM." Invaluable. December 1, 2016. Accessed January 22, 2019. https://www.invaluable.com/auction-lot/bertha-lum-depicting-a-spirit-creature-with-push-513-c-ece49628e6#.
"Biography." Bertha Lum. March 15, 2011. Accessed January 22, 2019. http://www.bertha-lum.org/acc.Asp.
Lum, Bertha. Untitled (Depicting a spirit creature with push carts in the background) . 1927. Raised Line Hand-colored Woodcut.
Siler, Patrick. "About." Patrick Siler. 2011. Accessed January 24, 2019. http://patricksiler.com/about.html.
Siler, Patrick. Untitled. 1985-1986. Woodcut Print.
"Biography." Bertha Lum. March 15, 2011. Accessed January 22, 2019. http://www.bertha-lum.org/acc.Asp.
Lum, Bertha. Untitled (Depicting a spirit creature with push carts in the background) . 1927. Raised Line Hand-colored Woodcut.
Siler, Patrick. "About." Patrick Siler. 2011. Accessed January 24, 2019. http://patricksiler.com/about.html.
Siler, Patrick. Untitled. 1985-1986. Woodcut Print.