What is a Monotype? As its name implies, a monotype is a singular  (on-of-a-kind) hand-pulled print.  Monotypes are an intriguing hybrid, they are neither  printing nor painting but a combination of the two. How is the Image made? Lithographic ink is applied to a clean plexiglas or metal plate.  The artist inks this plate directly using a brush, brayer or other non-incisive tool.  Then, with a sheet of paper overlaying this plate the image is transferred to the paper by passing it through an etching press.  This image reverses itself during printing and takes on characteristics unique to the medium.  Most of the ink transfers to the paper leaving a residue which, if printed again, is called a ghost image. This image may be developed further into another one-of-a-kind print. Monotypes have the distinct advantage of encouraging spontaneity, improvisation and experimentation.

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