Isabelle Fleming - Portfolio
In the 21st century we live in an increasingly visual culture, where the power of the image is paramount. We receive our information from the digital world, where the message is communicated by the juxtaposition of image and text and our attention is directed by design and layout. My A level Art course has developed my interest in Graphic Design by allowing me to explore drawing and deep enjoyment of printing.
Printing Experiments…
In the past couple of years, I have been fascinated by the different techniques in printmaking. I have included some of my various prints, each with their own description. Below are a series of experimental collagraphs using a range of materials like string, sandpaper and corrugated card. I wanted to experiment with intaglio printing and the different effects the materials would have on the final print.
After the two simple linocuts above I wanted to experiment with different etching ideas. So I took inspiration from the work above and used Tetra Pak to create the designs below. The one on the left is a ghost print and I found Tetra Pak a good medium to show texture. The areas of black / grey are where I ripped away larger areas of the Tetra Pak to get more definition.
Beneath are a series of experiments originated from an adaptable weaving containing mesh, transparent thin fabric and different string-like textiles. The fabric itself was inspired by Judith Scott, who uses a variety of collected materials. I went on to complete different monotype relief prints by inking up the weaving and putting it through a press. Furthermore, I made two different photograms, one showing more exposure than the other. What I enjoy about photograms is the outcome is more reminiscent of a x-ray and that it is an alternative to simply printing photographs by layering objects and exposing them to light.
A new printing approach I have learnt is covering up different areas of your print with newspaper to effectively block areas you want in different colours. As you can see I worked in contrasting colours, pink and blue. The prints were made on A3 and I believe I definitely have the opportunity to improve now I understand the process. However, I inevitably found this technique exciting due to my interest in structural design and forms. Additionally, it has made me aware of screen printing and how I can use the overlapping of shapes to create a successful screen print. It will allow me to look at the freedom of using graphics in screen printing by transferring a stencilled design onto a screen.
Screen Printing:
I developed my knowledge in overlapping colours in printing by researching different screen prints. I made a series of around 40 prints half in dots and half in bricks. I took inspiration from Robyn Denny and Damien Hurst for an understanding of colour theory.
Made in A3, I completed around 20 prints in dots in various different colours, some overlapping and some meshing together. I really enjoyed screen printing as the ink I used produced bright and vibrant colours that made it an effective technique.
As well as the dots, I created a series of bricks, using the same and different colours, both series were influenced by visual images of surfaces. What I think worked well about the bricks is the obvious contrast in differentiating colours.
Supporting Portfolio Work:
Sculptures made in wood:
Following my interest in structural and line elements, I wanted to make a wearable wooden sculpture using triangles to create a 3D sculpture. I started making an undecorated base that would fit around the shoulder and continue down the model’s arm to make a piece that was somewhat wearing the model not the other way round and looking at themes of restriction. Following the simple arm structure, I made a piece with the main body being designed in wood with elements of wire and gold mesh. I was intrigued with Hew Locke’s work which resulted in embellishment in my pieces. I used gold beads and pearls and eventually collected jewellery. It also follows themes of limitation. Furthermore, I made another wooden sculpture which I covered in different card flowers. Working in wood allowed to me continue operating in architectural techniques but pushing my knowledge by designing and creating around the body.
Other work and designs in various media…
In contrast to my previous line work. The first drawing beneath, I drew a successful piece inspired by Sol Lewitt’s drawings. What I found I achieved in the design is the various patterns and the free flowing origins of the lines. It is a more natural response than my other works and I have transferred this to translucent film to create a screen print. As well as making a similar design on aluminium and creating an etching in response to the drawing.
My artwork especially my 3D sculptures and experimenting with print-making has developed my interest for Graphic Design. I love how Graphic Design can give me the opportunity to be creative through a variety of media. I am excited about the prospect of exploring further in which design influences our day to day lives and having the opportunity to develop my technical skills at university. Im eager to devote my attention to Graphic Design and I am positive university will help me excel in this new creative course.
