I use printmaking techniques as part of my practice because their repeat processes allow for seemingly endless change and variations, whilst retaining elements of earlier images. This enables me to articulate a core theme of my art; the way that, to any situation, we bring all our previous history and perceptions; and these, equally, are met by other people or things that bring their own history.
The method of working I have developed usually starts with an old, used plate (I have been reusing the same group of copper plates for over 20 years) which I partially sand down, leaving a trace - or history - of the previous image. The image is then printed over an old print. Traces of previous history from both the old print and the old plate are thus mingled with the new image.
I produce what may be called print-paintings because, although printmaking techniques are integral to my work, it is only through extensive working of the image through drawing, painting, and repeated printings that each picture is created. Each piece is therefore unique.
themes & projects
