‘Always in Charge Never in Control’ is a paper Doll created through a meticulous handmade process, where each part was first carved, then printed, and cut out by hand.
She represents a strong female character who, although in charge of her autonomy, is subject to forces and structures beyond her control.
WHAT IS LINOCUT?
Linocut printing is a relief printmaking technique where an image is carved into a sheet of linoleum, inked with a roller, and then pressed onto paper to create a bold, graphic print.
The Process
Planning and Sketching
Each part was first sketched and a mock-up shape was cut out to plan and perfect the mobility of each body part.
The parts were then individually drawn onto the sheet of linoleum to be carved.
Carving the Printing Plate
A super-fine carving tool was used to cut out the shapes and fine lines of the character in the linoleum printing plate- a process which spanned several days.
Care has to be taken, as excess material carved out can no longer be corrected.
Printing
Once the carving was complete, the plate was ready for printing.
Using a roller called a brayer, ink was spread evenly on a glass surface and then applied to the linoleum plate.
The plate was then placed on a printing press and manually pulled through to make an individual print. For each copy, new ink was applied to the plate and ulled through the press making each print one-of-a-kind.
The prints were then dried outside over a couple of days.
Cutting and Assembly
Each body part was cut out by hand and holes were punched for clean assembly with the metal brads. Each one is signed and stamped on the back and is ready for diy assembly :)!
