Original Linocut - Moorhens on the Pond

Moorhen and chicks and the old ice pond (based on watching a family of moorhens balance precariously on the algae layer of the old disused ice pond at Chilston Park, Lenham, Kent)

Paper: 21x21cm Bread&Butter printmaking paper, 270gsm, white, smooth, matte, cut edges

Print: 15 x 10.5 cm, Cranfield Caligo ink, custom green-blue and black 

Edition: last prints of an open edition, titled and signed

This print is a Multiblock Linocut.

To make a multiblock linocut print, the design is split into layers which are carved into several coordinating traditional linoleum plates, in reverse. All the plates and all the paper pieces have to be registered so that they print in exactly the same area each time. The first plate is inked up, registered and carefully covered with paper, and then put in the press. I print with Alma or Albert, two Victorian cast iron book presses, in addition to hand burnishing the details of a print. When the first layer is dry, the process is repeated with the other plates until the key block goes on which ties all layers together to make the image. Dependingon the number of layers, multiblock prints can take several weeks to complete. This print has 2 layers and is made with two coordinating linoleum plates. There will be variations between each print, making each one unique. This is especially the case for printing on slightly textured paper, which leads to a print with a very organic feel.