Reconnecting with Monotypes in a Sustainable Art Practice

As an artist who values sustainability, I've always been passionate about creating work that inspires and respects the environment. Recently, I've rekindled my love for monotypes, a form of printmaking that I've found incredibly rewarding, but with an earthy twist. Unlike limited edition prints, each monotype is a one-of-a-kind piece, making it a truly unique form of art.

A monotype is a single impression created from a smooth, unetched plate. This distinguishes it from a monoprint, where the plate may have permanent features that can be repeated in multiple prints. The beauty of monotypes lies in their spontaneity and the unique textures and effects that can be achieved with each print.

I used to spend all my time in college creating monotypes, fascinated by the speed and spontaneity of the process. At present, I have been using this technique to study positive and negative space more closely before starting any new paintings on linen. After focusing heavily on admin tasks recently, it’s left me feeling creatively drained. Revisiting monotypes has been a liberating experience, allowing me to explore colour combinations and create freely without any pressure to create a “finished piece”.

Making monotypes is incredibly therapeutic, helping me reconnect with my creative practice and focus on the simple marks of pencil on paper. By pushing and pulling (*earth mineral) “ink” across the plate, I've rediscovered the joy of creating and the importance of being present in the moment. Throughout this meditative process, it has made space in my mind for ideas for future paintings on linen, inspired by the textures and compositions of these monotypes.

During this time, I've learned the value of stepping back and allowing myself the freedom to experiment. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best way to overcome a creative block is to return to techniques that bring you pure joy and let you express yourself without constraints.

Fellow artists, I encourage you to explore monotypes and see how this versatile medium can enhance your practice. For those who appreciate art, consider adding a monotype to your collection—each piece is a unique work of art that tells its own story.

Take a moment to be present and immerse yourself in the creative process, whether through making or appreciating art. It's a powerful way to connect with yourself and the world around you.

Stay inspired and keep creating!

* I have been using my usual process of making paint with earth minerals as the basis of my monotypes. This has meant learning how the paint behaves with a different technique from painting, working with what I have available to me. By embracing this unconventional method, I'm able to reduce waste and create a more environmentally friendly practice that stays true to my values.