Last week I ran a proof for a new print inspired by the Sir Gawain and Green Knight narrative. Initially the print was going to be a multi plate affair, a technique I thought I had mastered somewhat. But after multiple runs I became increasingly dissatisfied with the results ; The Green Knight proofs were consistent only in their inconsistency: the colors were not aligning , the ink was spotty and “snow-flaked”. I strive to achieve consistency when I run a series, something that was drilled into by my instructor Jim. So I decided to turn to a technique that Jim was less than enthusiastic about, pochoir, or more simply , stenciling . Jim felt it not quite printmaking in some way, and I can understand his resistance. Yet, with this technique I was able to accomplish what I was searching for , color, color that was within the defining lines of the image. A certain degree of wonkiness in printmaking can be desirable but what I was producing just looked like I didn’t know what the hell I was doing. This is the final artist’s proof of The Green Knight. He seems particularly suited to the winter holidays.
The Green Knight
2015
pochoir-relief print on paper, artist’s proof
image size 8 by10″
The misalignment that frustrated me is apparent in this image.
I had far preferred the simple black and white print, yet he is the Green knight.
The pochoir process is satisfyingly craft oriented, I was able to utilize techniques and tools from my decorative painting career.
To now have a desk full of proofs is satisfying, I will run a series in the new year, brightening the green and using the darker buff. I am also going to utilize the pochoir technique when I run my recent print The Proposition. I hope to produce prints that are more vibrant AND aligned in the future . At the same time cutting back on production headaches as cutting stencils is far easier than cutting lino. My only new year resolution is to actually make and hopefully sell some prints, pochoir-relief prints may be the answer. Until next time, be well.
Boondocks Babylon 
He looks magnificent Leonard, congrats on getting there and going with a process that worked for you in that moment. It really is a spiffing print!
Thanks Phil! I’ll take spiffing any day!
I like your thought process, consider and respect what you were taught, and proceed with what works. The end result can only be satisfaction.
Thanks, slowly, very slowly , I am building confidence . It’s very hard at times , self doubt and all, but this time it worked at well I think. Be well friend and happy holidays !
Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, sigh. One of the epic poems that so resonated with me when I was in high school. My romantic vision of the Green Knight aligns very nicely with your print; thanks for bringing him to life! I could imagine you illustrating the entire poem. And pochoir is an honorable method of achieving the results you required. Bravo on its use!
It is easy to crush on the Green Knight! thanks again,Lg