Paul Holt

Prints

Artist Statement

I began printmaking many years ago as an experiment to my work in photography. I had big ideas about mixing the two mediums. It didn't turn out so well in the technique I was using but soon turned to a fascination with making prints. I printed by hand for several years, eventually expanding techniques and using presses. My time as a printmaker is split by a nineteen year break to raise a family, during which I contiued to squeeze the creative juices into photograhic images and writing. 

I resumed printmaking in 2004. My work since then has been done almost exclusively in relief and mono type. I favor the use of cut linoleum blocks with a variation to the inking process, as in monotype. I use multiple layers of ink and often use multiple blocks and / or reduction cuts. The result is a limit to each edition, usually 3-5 and a high degree of variation within each piece. Each layer of ink changes the image. I find great joy in witnessing each course merging to form a separate effect. The controlled uncertainty of this process is what makes it compelling.

Current print works hold a strong contrast to my photographs. The printed images are generated from within and are emotionally charged. I use color in prints to detach the subject from its moorings in space. I am drawn to emotional responses to the subject. There is calculation, most print images are planned before printing begins. Tests and proofs are made, although during the printing process an improvisation takes hold, which allows the emotional side of the piece to emerge. Variations in color and pattern develop spontaneously and feelings are allowed to break out. My work continues to be an experiment in their escape.