A monotype is essentially a cross between painting and printmaking.  It is an exciting process in which the artist paints on a plexiglass plate.  Once the plate is ready for printing, a sheet of dampened printmaking paper is set on top of the plate.  The plate and paper are then pressed together, usually with pressure from a  printmaking press.  Pressure can also be applied by hand, with a wooden spoon, a baren, or even fingers.  The pressure applied causes textures and effects that would be impossible through painting alone.  Each time a plate is printed, the plate is wiped clean.  Therefore, each one is an original, one-of-a-kind work of art.  (The word "mono" means "one.")

These monotypes measure 7 x 5 inches for the art.  They are printed on heavy printmaking paper.

©All artwork copyright Karine Swenson 2009.  All rights reserved.