January 13, 2016 - giraffe 2 - #3

It's fun to experiment with the same relief print on different types of paper.  Below, the first image could stand along as a very simplistic giraffe image.  It involves only 2 materials in addition to the carved block:  one color of ink and toned paper.  The second print is on a little higher quality paper, and the addition of a little more giraffe-like color.  The third image is on a paper with a little more texture and includes even more added color.  Each image could serve a different purpose. 

Strathmore makes two readily-available toned papers; tan and gray.  I frequently pull proof prints on the tan and practically never pull a proof (or do a sketch, for that matter,) on the gray. 

 

Giraffe #2 - Relief print using sepia Ranger ink on 300 series tan Strathmore paper.

I am also partial to mixed media papers, and as you can predict, my favorite at this point in time, is Strathmore.  I am keenly aware, however, that products can change, both in the way they are manufactured AND in the way they maintain (or not) their integrity, over time.

I recently read the blog of a teacher I worked with at Minnesota Center for Book Arts, who has recently shifted her thinking about a sketchbook she has recommended for several years.  She is often looked to for review and critiques of products and materials, and maintains her non-affiliation to each product line.  To check out her January 11th review about Fabriano Venezia journals, check this link:  www.rozwoundup.typepad.com/  

Giraffe #2 - Relief print using Ranger sepia ink on 400 series Strathmore mixed media paper.  Color enhanced with FW  acrylic ink.

Roz's blog is very organized, as well, so if you are looking for additional product reviews of papers, inks, or water-soluble pencils, gouache paint color integrity, etc., check her sight.  From time to time, she also recommends one of my favorite art supply locations, Wet Paint in St. Paul, Minnesota.   (I am also partial to the Blick in Edina, Minnesota primarily because of the fabulous team in the design center!) 

Giraffe #2 - Giraffe relief print on 300 series Strathmore watercolor paper (notice the texture of the surface,) using Daniel Smith relief ink, FW acrylic ink and black India ink.