Create Reductive Monotypes On The Gelli Arts® Printing Plate by Marsha Valk

Hi there! It’s Marsha here today, sharing how you can create monotypes on the Gelli® plate.

One of the questions I get sometimes is: Is a gel print a monotype or a monoprint?

The answer is: A Gelli® plate enables you to create both monoprints and monotypes.

A monoprint is a one-of-a-kind print created using a repeatable matrix or repeatable printing elements.

The matrix or elements vary depending on the printmaking method: an etched plate, a cut woodblock, a silk screen or litho stone with a design, or a linocut.

Translating this to gel printing: When you combine a variable ink or paint application with something reusable and repeatable, like a stencil, a mask, a stamp, a texture plate, etc., you’re creating a monoprint.

A monotype is a single, one-off print pulled from a flat, smooth plate (glass, metal, plexi, litho stone, or gel) painted with a design.

This design can be created by applying ink or paint with brushes, fingers, rollers, and sponges or by inking the entire plate and manipulating the ink or paint with brushes, skewers, rags, etc.

So, let’s try the latter: a reductive monotype!

Creating a monotype can take a while, so you’ll need ink or paint with a long open time.

In the video, I’m using Akua Intaglio Ink. This soy-based ink doesn’t dry on the plate and cleans up easily with soap and water.

If you don’t have a stay-open printmaking ink, you can use Golden OPEN paints instead or try mixing paint with a slow-dry medium.

Take your time rolling out the ink into a thin and even layer.

Having your gel plate on a white surface helps you see the marks you’re making.

I approach creating a reductive monotype like sketching or drawing. If you can let go of expectations, it’s way more fun and can be quite relaxing. You can choose any subject matter you love to draw and use reference images if you want.

Use a soft tool to wipe, push, pull, gently scrape, stamp and stipple the ink. If you don’t know where to start, focus on removing the light parts first and use a soft brush to reapply the ink if you feel you’ve removed too much.

Pull the print once you’re happy with your image.