Disruption: A Clay Monoprint
Some clay monoprints serve as perfect examples when explaining the uniqueness of the technique. This is one of those examples.
“Disruption” - a clay monoprint by Andrew T. Smith of Visual Realia Studio
After Mitch Lyons created the medium of clay monoprints, he also established a tradition that is itself unique; when creating a new print, rather than starting on a new matrix of fresh clay, the artist designs on top of the remaining clay from previous prints.
The result is a print that not only picks up and displays clay via color and form, using elements of the new design, but also random areas where pieces of previous prints transfer and speak through the imagery.
This somewhat random "look back" at previous works means that the artist never has complete control of a finished work. The tradeoff? "Happy surprises" that enhance an image in ways that the artists would never have been able to plan for and pull off.
In this way, the clay monoprint tradition mimics much of life. We can be well prepared and thoughtful about our next steps in life, and in doing so, improve our chances of success, but unforeseen events will still occur and in some cases, shape our lives in positive ways.
In the monoprint at the top of this essay, my specific design for the piece was solid stripes of color. Anything in the finished print that is not part of that solid color is a remnant from previous works. The past raising its voice yet again.
Making a clay monoprint is a combination of color, form, the planned, and the unplanned. Disruptions, as in this piece and its title, are an essential piece of the art.
Open Studio and Monoprint Demonstration
Friday, June 7th, 2019
Hours: 5:00-7:30 PM
Demonstration: 5:30-7:00 PM
View a working demonstration of the clay monoprint process from beginning to a pulled print. Watch, discuss, and ask questions about the techniques.
Works (monoprints and photographs) will be available for viewing and purchase. Hope to see you there!
Visual Realia Studio
Adams County Arts Council, Studio 207
125 South Washington Street
Gettysburg, PA 17325
Photograph courtesy of Hannah Smith.
Visual Realia Studio: It's Live!
Gettysburg now has its own clay monoprint studio! Find out more…
After a 32-year journey as a music educator, I've opened a small studio space in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania in their local arts hub, the Adams County Arts Council facility. I'm working with and sharing the unique techniques known as clay monoprint printing, as well as teaching the process and selling both these clay prints and locally-themed photographs.
Hours are as requested by contacting Andy via email (ostman4200@comcast.net) or calling 717-451-4181. In addition, open studios for visitors are held on most First Fridays from 5-7:30 PM.
Follow the progress of the studio and its works on social media:
www.facebook.com/VisualRealiaStudio
www.instagram.com/visualrealia/
Clay monoprints are genuinely unique works (thus "mono") originated by Pennsylvania's own Mitch Lyons, who was the master of the technique, but fortunately was generous in sharing the possibilities with students that crossed his path. You can read more about Mitch and his process at these links.
Be a part of this artistic community by visiting the studio or contacting me. What can we do together?
• Browse a growing collection of clay monoprints and photographic works in numerous styles, sizes, themes, and color palettes.
• Discuss commissioning clay monoprint works. When decorating our homes and offices, for the same price as generic big-box store art, we can create a work that works perfectly for you. Base your artwork on a word, phrase, idea, or color schemes.
$60.00 - approximately 15x20
$75.00 - approximately 18x34
Want to discuss other ideas? Contact me!
• Tour the studio, learn about the process of making clay monoprints, and make your own unique print. These sessions combine learning about a new cultural form with a relaxed, fun atmosphere. Everyone leaves with their own monoprint!
1 person - $35.00
2 or 3 people - $30 per person
4 to 6 people - $25 per person (Work in pairs, but each leaves with a unique print.)
Perfect for families, friends, homeschool (grades 7 and up) projects, work team activities, etc.
Want to know more? Sure, you do! Contact me with questions or ideas.
ostman4200@comcast.net
(717) 451-4181
Studio location:
Studio 207
Adams County Arts Council
125 South Washington Street
Gettysburg, PA 17325
Photos on this page courtesy of Hannah Smith.