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Monoprint and Monotype Printmaking
A monoprint is a single impression made from a printing plate. It would be a plate with permanent marks that could be printed with unique application of ink or with collage or painted additions. Monoprints can be made on any type of printing plate - metal, plastic, linoleum, etc.
A monotype is made from drawing or painting on a non-absorbant plate such as metal or plastic. Another method is to coat the whole plate with ink or paint and remove areas with a cloth, brush or even a finger. Only one print can be made with this method.
Monoprinting and monotyping are a favorite method of contemporary artists because of the ability to create painterly marks. The earliest known artist who used the monotype process was by Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione in the 1640's. It was not widespread until Degas' time when more artists popularized the technique.
Many artists experiment with monotypes and monoprints, using unique methods and materials. Clay slabs with slip, gelatin plates and mixed methodologies are just a few new techniques artists have used.
Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione; Monotype of an Oriental Man; 1655
Charles Abel Corwin; Portrait of James McNeill Whistler; monotype; 1880
Edgar Degas; The Jet Earring; monotype; 1876 - 1877
The images above are in the public domain.
Some sites about monotypes and monoprints:
Monoprints.com
Smithsonian Studio Arts: Monoprints vs. Monotypes
Some tutorials and tips about monotypes and monoprints:
Golden Paints: Monoprint Techniques
About Monoprints
Monoprint with Simon Ripley - Vimeo
Some artists who worked with monotypes and monoprints:
Harry Bertoia
Art Cafe: Edgar Degas
British Museum: Castiglione
Art in Print: Gaugin
Some contemporary artists who work with monotypes and monoprints:
Mitch Lyons
Sally Duback
Bruce Waldman
Keiji Shinohara
Midge Naylor
Liza Houston
Martha Pfanschmidt
Big Ant Studio