This process, collagraph printing reminded me of doing paper collages with mod-podge as a kid. I built up layers of acrylic gel medium on mat board. Then quickly pillaged my box of random materials and found a bit of mesh, a failed paper cast remnant, a container of semi-dry granulated gel medium, and some other odds and ends. After cutting some shapes out of the screen mesh, I began to compose with the various materials and made sure to seal them with acrylic.
Earlier this week I found some paper stashed away; I was delighted to discover it was the paper I bought while visiting Kochi in the Southern(ish) part of Japan. I used most of the heavier weight Kozo for various projects throughout the year, but I have been reserving the thin Tengujo (典具帖) for distant projects. I decided on a whim, today was the day I would finally use it for something.
After rolling the collagraph plate with Aquawash ink I delicately placed the thin paper on top. My usual methods of taking a print seemed too rough for this paper, I decided to use a gentler approach. I used the backside of a spoon, I worked through the sections making small circles as I applied pressure. Some of the areas were too raised and it was difficult to capture the ink on the surface.
Since conducting this set of experiments, I have begun to look at the discarded bits in my studio as potential materials for future collagraph prints. I was not thrilled with the process at first, but after pulling several images, I came to see why artists still employ this method. I am equally excited to finally be using the Tengujo paper! I have six large sheets remaining and I’ve got a project in mind.
Tengujo paper 典具帖和紙
