monotype

10x10 monotype

The terms, monoprint and monotype are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between one and the other. I am working on monotypes and they are essentially one of a kind prints.
The process of creating a monoprint or a monotype is the same, but when doing monotypes, you work on a clean and un-etched plate. When creating a monoprint, there is always a pattern or part of an image which is repeated in each print.
Monoprints and monotypes can be created by manually adding (additive method) or removing (subtractive method) ink from a plate which is then printed using a printing press. In the subtractive method you cover a surface (metal or plexi-glass plate) entirely with color (usually with etching ink or oil paint), then you remove the ink partially or wholly to expose areas of the picture being made. You can use brushes, Q-tips, fingers, rags, etc. With the additive method, you start with a clean plate and apply the ink or oil paint (sometimes even water-based inks or crayons) in various ways.
So far I have found that making a type of notan with the ink and brayer and later adding and subtracting accordingly is a nice compromise. The brayer helps me add less ink. It has been a very long time since I worked in printmaking and I have sooooooo much to learn and relearn!
 I am venturing back in with the idea I will build stronger paintings later- a more distilled painting. 
Here are two of  Degas' inspiring monotypes. The first is only ink and the second is oil paint with pastel scumbled over. Aren't they sumptuous?