Tuesday, May 5, 2009

The Beginning of Graphic Arts



After my last article on graphic artist Mary Cassatt, I started to think about the beginnings of graphic arts.

I have learned that making prints began as early as the Northern Renaissance and became a popular art form. Because making prints is the most affordable way for collectors to own art, it is as popular today as it was at its inception.

The 2 early types of techniques used to make multiple prints were woodcut and engraving.

Woodcut

Woodcut, the oldest technique for making prints originated in Germany about 1400. Albrecht Durer is often referred to as greatest artist of the Northern Renaissance was a master of the woodcut. Durer improved the primitive looking woodcuts by showing differences in texture and tone with his technique.

Engraving

This process began about 1430 and this method was known as intaglio (ink transferred from below the surface). Durer also perfected this technique and was able to duplicate on a copper plate the effects of light that resembled the Dutch in oil and Italians in fresco.

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