Introduction

• The speaker expresses an initial dislike for printmaking, describing it as "stupid".
• Over time, the speaker develops a passion for printmaking, now possessing a collection of prints greater than any other art form.
• The speaker brings examples of prints to share with the class, organized by variety and process.

Overview of Printmaking

• The speaker emphasizes the economic aspect of printmaking, arguing that it serves as an accessible entry point for art education.
• Discussion on the auctioning of art and the economics surrounding investment in art.
• The significance of printmaking in relation to costs and accessibility compared to original artworks.

Historical Context

• Printmaking began in the 1400s during the Renaissance, noted for its revival of arts and culture.
• The development of printmaking allowed for wider distribution and collecting of art.

Processes of Printmaking

• The speaker outlines five key printmaking processes:
    ## 1. Relief Printing
    - The umbrella category encompassing three subcategories: woodcut, wood engraving, and linocut.
    - Relief printing involves printing from a raised surface (positive area).
    - Equipment needed:
      - Wood blocks in various sizes, which can be as small as a business card or as large as three feet tall.
      - The design is drawn on the block, and excess areas are gouged out to create negative space.
      - Ink is applied with a roller, and the block is pressed against paper to transfer the image.
    - Process Summary:
      - Number of prints may vary (e.g., 20, 35, 80, 100).
      - Black and white prints dominate (around 90%), but color can be added through various techniques (registration, reduction, hand coloring).
      - Example: Print of Saint Christopher, a saint associated with protection while traveling.
  
    ## 2. Wood Engraving
    - A specific form of relief printing using a different type of wood that allows for finer detail.
    - Engraved using the tree's rings, minimizing grain issues to achieve clearer images.
    - Typically more expensive due to special ordering of fine-grade wood.
    - Clear, photographic quality prints are discussed, with artists known for this technique like Rockwell Kent.
  
    ## 3. Linocut
    - A softer material than wood, making it easier to carve, but can distort images when printed.
    - Often attached to a wood block for handling.
    - Suitable for high school arts and crafts; prints are less durable than those made with harder materials.
    - Example process video described.
  
    ## 4. Intaglio
    - Unlike relief printing, intaglio prints from the negative space (grooves).
    - Subcategories include engraving, etchings, and drypoints.
    - Typical materials are copper or zinc plates, which can be carved into using a burn.
    - Engravings are historically significant, being used in book illustrations before photography.
    - Costs for prints vary significantly; intaglio prints can reach high prices depending on the artist.
    - Description of process, where ink settles in the grooves, and some prints emphasizing soft lines (drypoints).
  
    ## 5. Lithography
    - Developed in the late 1700s, lithography makes printmaking accessible to more artists, requiring only basic drawing skills.
    - The process involves drawing on a flat limestone surface and applying waxy chemicals to attract ink.
    - Highly efficient printing method allows for printing thousands of copies without loss of quality.
    - Economic implications discussed regarding value inflation with mass production.
    - Mention of prominent artists associated with lithography like Daumier, who utilized it for social commentary and political satirization.
  
    ## 6. Silk Screening
    - Involves pushing ink through a stencil onto various surfaces.
    - Associated with pop culture and artists like Andy Warhol; used for quick production of designs.
    - Historically significant in the 1960s and 70s, popular in DIY projects.
  
    ## 7. Monotype
    - A unique printing process wherein only one print is created per plate.
    - Appeals to artists due to the element of chance and uniqueness it brings to each output.
    - Often involves methods adopted from earlier artists, making the practice traditional yet innovative.

Conclusion

• The speaker hints at upcoming discussions on photography while emphasizing the practical aspects of learning printmaking.
• The dynamic between art, economics, and accessibility is reiterated, framing printmaking as an essential art form.
• Acknowledges the class's progress nearing the end of the semester, creating excitement and anticipation for future lessons.