Gelli plate printing is a form of monoprinting popular with artists and print makers where a silicon plate that is soft and pliable is employed .It is a development of what in the 1800 hundreds was a method using a gelatine plate to make multiple copies of an image long before photocopiers and photo printers existed . The process usually starts with the application of acrylic paint or alcohol ink on the Gelli plate, and then you use various tools such as a roller to manipulate the paint before you transfer it onto paper. You can then add texture, stencils or natural materials in additional layers that you build up. The charm of Gelli printing lies in the spontaneity; each print is unique, and artists tend to embrace the unexpected results of layering the colors and textures. It is a fun and simple way of experimenting with the printmaking process without any special equipment.
During their Gelli printing demonstration at the clubhouse on Friday 14th Gerry Coe and John Miskelly illustrated how individual techniques result in an array of artistic expressions. Through his artistic practice Gerry utilized natural elements like leaves to produce abstract artwork. He started his method by choosing different leaves which had unique shapes and textures. The artist placed the painted leaves onto the Gelli plate to imprint their detailed designs onto the paper. Gerry described the method as unpredictable because his vision for the final image frequently produced unexpected results. Whenever the prints failed to meet his expectations he would restart the process and try using different leaves or paint colors.
While Gerry focused on natural patterns through leaves, John used abstract landscapes in Gelli printing which came from his own photography as inspiration. John transformed colors and shapes from his images into elements of his Gelli printing technique. His technique involved multiple layers of paint on the Gelli plate where he frequently used brayers to merge colors and establish depth. Like Gerry, John also recognized the difficulties he faced when attempting to create his precise vision through his artwork. He explained that Gelli printing's spontaneous nature produced unexpected results which generated both frustration and excitement. The unpredictable aspects of his work pushed him to experiment with fresh concepts which turned every print into a distinct artistic creation.
They both showed that Gelli printing involves not only producing the final artwork but also experiencing creative exploration and accepting unexpected results that differ from initial plans. The clubhouse hosted a unique type of evening which remained both fascinating and enjoyable.
Thank you very much to both Gerry and John for bringing down all their equipment and setting it up for a live presentation. To see more of Gerry's work go to his Instagram page at www.instagram.com/coeiphoneart, and to see more of John's work on Instagram go to www.instagram.com/john_miskelly
Next meeting is Friday 21st and Bangor and North Down camera club will be joined by Hugh Rooney who will be showing us how he makes photographic books and zines
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