MONOTYPES

          A monotype is a one-of-a-kind original work of art created on one surface and transferred to a second surface.  The work can be done in paint or ink on a flat surface such as glass.  When paper is laid over the image and pressure is applied, the image transfers to the paper.  Any residual ink or paint on the plate (the working surface) is called a ghost.  The ghost can be transferred to another paper (then called a ghost print), or re-worked to achieve a related but individual piece.  
          Sonia's monotypes are worked in a variety of mediums: printmaking inks, acrylic and watercolor.  The working surface is usually glass, but one body of her work is done on gelatin plates.  



left:  Pod 1, monotype, © 2014

Gelatin Monotypes

          Gelatin Monotypes are created on a printing plate made of gelatin, a surface very sensitive to texture.  Ink or paint is applied to the gelatin, then manipulated.  Layer by layer, images are hand-transferred to the printing paper.  The result is a unique, original work of art that combines the character of painting with printmaking.