First, the artist finalizes the formula for each of the colors to be used. Each color is “made from scratch” to suit a particular piece by mixing from a number of tinted inks. A solid understanding of color theory is indispensable. For example, the orange color in the Red Eyed Frog is comprised of six (6) different colors to get the precise tone used in the final series of prints.

Only water-based inks are used to eliminate the use of any detrimental solvents released into the environment. In fact, Monte Azul Gráfica only uses organic/non-toxic, water-soluble cleaners.

Once the final selection of color and the precise formula for each of them is completed, the color separations are made. In other words, each color is separated from the image and then applied by itself onto a transparent film, which is used as a film positive.

Then, using a special tool, a light sensitive emulsion to the surface of the printing screen is applied. The screen is exposed to light with the color separation attached over the emulsion. After exposure, the emulsion is washed off the surface and where the film positive blocks the light, the surface remains open to receive the ink.

The result is a screen for each color. The screens are made of minutely spaced nylon weave tightly stretched over an aluminum frame, about 90 strands per centimeter.

Finally, Randy handprints each color, one at a time, on individual sheets of 100% recycled/chlorine-free paper —which has a rich surface and is of a good heavy weight. By applying even pressure on a squeegee to force ink through the screen and onto the paper beneath, an image is formed one color at a time. The process can be tedious and long, each step has the potential to spoil weeks of work. Fortunately, with our experience and skill, loss (equal to waste) is minimized.

For example, the Red Eyed Frog: yellow was printed first on each sheet of paper, one step could easily take all day. Special care is taken to register the screen so that a color prints precisely in the same position on each sheet of paper. When the yellow ink has dried, the light green is then printed, and so on, until the image is complete. Black, being the color that in our style of work defines the image, is printed last. The completed prints are set to dry on special racks designed to maximize air circulation and cured to allow the colors to become fully stabilized.

Monte Azul Gráfica is located on site in our nature preserve. The gallery & studio offers established artists facilities to produce etchings, monotypes, and many other printmaking media. We offer special workshops with invited artists as well as periodic art exhibitions in our gallery.

Monte Azul Gráfica is located on site in our nature preserve. The gallery & studio offers established artists facilities to produce etchings, monotypes, and many other printmaking media. We offer special workshops with invited artists as well as periodic art exhibitions in our gallery.