Gelli-fied

Last weekend while browsing around online, I read a mention of the "Gelli Plate" - a mineral oil based "gelatin" plate for monopriting. My first reaction was "Monoprint? Why would I want a monoprint?" After a bit more research, I started realizing the potential of such a device, especially for a collage-y person as myself. While technically yes, it does produce a single print, there's also the possibility of getting multiple prints from a single plate-inking, which means there's even more possibilities since each print is a little different. Anyway, after getting out of work a bit early on Wednesday, I walked over to Dick Blick in Pasadena to pick one up (and as a bonus, at a bit of a discount from what you can get directly from Gelli!) With the exception of an interruption due to a biking accident, I've been printing up a storm this weekend, only using materials I've had on hand. I really like the potential for using leaves and other nature bits, but that will have to wait for another time.

To get started I read the paper that came with the plate (no need for me to repeat such things here) & put some youtube videos on in the background. I don't own any stencils, but I set out digging through my recycle bin and other random materials I had on hand to play and make some awesome effects and unique prints. Because of all the layers and the metallic paint I used in some of the prints, there's no way the scans will be as interesting as the originals, but they will have to do. All are printed on 8.5" x 11" cardstock. These are a few of my favorites so far.