SUBJECTS MATTER - printing inspiration

Subjects for printing can come quickly or evolve slowly. I have files and files of images that would make great prints; what makes the final cut?

Here are a few things that I have learned about image choice.

Photo of wee red roof

wee red roof lino cut

Photo of Burgh Hall stairs

Linocut of Burgh Hall stairs

• Start by using strong black/white images to practice composition and cutting

• Consider if you want a realistic feel or strong graphic style - this will inform your subject matter somewhat

• You will be working on the image repetitively so choose something you know you will enjoy seeing as a final image - once the cutting starts you're invested

• Colour success is something that can be trial and error and improves with practice, lead yourself into colour gently with your subjects

• Use technology to edit images - this allows you to quickly see how things could work out without lots and lots of sketching

• But also sketch... sometimes being less precious and drawing straight onto the lino can bring the best results

• The images that you love and think are great prints aren't always popular with others or sell well - don't take it personally, as the image you have created may have personal, emotional memories for you, therefore it was 100% worth doing!

• if you are stuck in a rut and can't think of what to print, take a trip to somewhere new - it's a tried and tested formula for sparking new ideas.

Time to look through my hundreds of images to create some new work for #cowalopenstudios in September. The first image at the top of my blog will be my place to start this year, a strong graphic that may end up being on a larger scale than usual and I have plenty of new ideas to keep me busy!