wood block and formless ( what I think I am doing)

100x100cm on brown kraft paper, water based printing ink, wax
This was begun some weeks ago and I decided to do more work on the negative spaces.
I decided to finish with it, finish it off.
After inking it up and running off some straight/simple prints, I was satisfied with the functionality of the block....then I began experimenting directly with the paper ( wax) and the block, coloured ink 'blobs', and the paper which I saw as a common, mundane surface/support.
I decided to not try and achieve crystal clear print definition, preferring to develop a direct spontaneous 'fluxus'. The addition of the wax to the paper proved to be a effective operation, introducting another layer sonmewhere between the more static wood block and the equally static or flat paper. Traces of a wax, repellant shadow ( are) present. The grid pattern ( of one hundred square) creates an information overload effect, that combined with the ill defined printing transfer, the random colour element and the etherial wax 'watermark' all conspire to subvert the passive viewing moment whilst supporting a shimmering moment of emptiness and formless quietude.





detail of block with wax gestural before printing.
( introducing wax onto the flat etched surface creates releif and a random uptake of the ink from the block to the paper; 2nd operation)



collage of block, ink, rollers, kraft paper and studio.
I'm pleased with the new studio which Niko and I built over the summer, nice views into the bush and over the river, I can hear it from inside. Big overhead lighting and white walls and wood ( sarking), nice. I've started using the liquid wax product, this after working with the hot wax on the NZ07 piece (posted below)
As to what I think I'm doing, it's ongoing, that question. Some reflections and soundings are posted here.



This is a detail of 1% of the whole metre squared print. Top left hand corner. I say, there is some depth and intensity present in areas. Sumptuousness, extravagance and meaninglessness.
It is not a wax seal upon an important letter. It is not a thumb print, and yet it does not stop trying to be.