I have been working on two pieces for a while, a waste block linoleum cut ( the next in the blockheads series) and another "Studies" of imaginary vases linocut.
The reduction linocut, Blockheads, is very close to finished. I just cut the block for the last color. I have been waiting for the ink to dry between each printing and the drying has taken longer than expected. The last Blockheads linocut still remained tacky for a while even after it had been completed for at least a week. This type of slow progress is very different from the more immediate results that comes from monoprints. I know I do not like the lack of production but I have enjoyed learning in the waste block process - my technical skills are growing with each new print.
The other print I am working on is a one-color vase study and it is almost completed. The images included in this blog are definitely works in progress. I shot this image early in the morning with the block covered with tools and crumbs. This print should be completed soon.
One interesting technical observation is that the two linoleums are from different companies. One is harder, the other softer to cut. I'm still thinking about the advantages of one verses the other. The blockheads are on an inch high block that most easily works with the letter press at Zea MAys where I print them. The thinner block is printed at home the old-fashioned rubbing by hand method that seems to be more reliable than using a studio press. The mounted blocks are expensive but easier to print multi colors. The unmounted blocks are more difficult to register for more than one color.
it is interesting to compare the initial sharpie marker drawing with the actual cut
another look at this block. This piece, like the first "Studies" is 18" x 24"