Printmaking Research Paper

Printmaking is an art form that involves the creation of a master piece of artwork from which multiple images are made. These prints are considered original works of art even though they can exist in multiples. This art is one of the oldest forms of art in the world. Historically, printmaking was used to spread religious ideas or images. The process originated in China at around 105 A.D. but it did not gain more use in Europe until around the mid-15th century. Printmaking today is practiced as one of the fine arts.

There are three main types of printmaking, although there are several variations within each method. The process and materials of these techniques influence the appearance of the final print. Relief Printing, prints on a raised surface; the background is cut down, leaving a raised image which takes the ink. Intaglio Printing are prints that are made by cutting the picture into the surface of the printing plate; ink is held in grooves or wells cut, incised or etched into the surface of the plate then forced out onto damp paper under great pressure. Planography Printing is the printing on a flat surface; the design is drawn on a flat surface and then treated to hold ink and then the ink is transferred onto paper using pressure. Painting is a simpler form …show more content…
The print is an original work of art in the same way a painting is an original work of art. The difference is that the print has editions of the same image whereas the painting is a one-of-a-kind. Prints I believe are more valued in society today, because they more attainable than an original painting. I myself would rather own a print than a painting because I like that a print is numbered showing you how many actually exist. Artwork can be found in art galleries all around the world featuring all different mediums including both paintings and