To explore creation of visual materials, I created some samples of monoprinting to see what was possible with the technique.

To create my basic tests I took 2 acrylic plates and created 3 sections of mark making on each plate using whatever tools I had at my disposal.

I used ink spreaders, Q-tips and brushes to create different marks and explore what outcomes I could create. I went into monoprinting with no aim as to what I could create but simply to explore how I could create with monoprinting. 

I liked the outcomes of my monoprinting however I felt that I could have achieved similar textures and mark making by using other methods. I don't feel that these tests showed the potential of monoprinting and I should explore techniques that utilize monoprintings strengths.

For my next couple tests, I wanted to create texture by placing found materials between my ink plate and my paper. I made 2 testers; One with materials with holes in, and another tester with textured materials. 

I thought that these materials would create the most interesting negatives.

Left: Print from materials above   Right: Ghost print 

I love the outcome of the negative print, specifically the orange mesh and the blue material with tiny holes in it. I felt these textures would be fantastic, given that I could create larger areas of it as these tests wouldn't work for the scales of work I wanted to create

To create the textured print (right) I had to create a print with the materials so that the material would transfer it's texture to the ink plate.

Most of the materials didn't transfer very well and ended up creating block areas with very little texture. I did however, find success with the vinyl spotted material as the texture translated very well to the print. 

My main takeaway from this test was the first print which wasn't really a print but an embossing. I absolutely loved the texture on the scaly material as it once again, translated very well. This test opened my eyes to create areas of block color or negative which feature embossing to add literal texture to my work. I love the way the embossing creates texture which moves with the light and can act as hidden detail, if done subtly.

On my trip into Leeds Arts Gallery, I found the most useful resource for my project to be 'Graphic Style: From Victorian to New Century. 3rd Edition'. This booked contained a tonne of interesting posters and examples of graphic design which opened my eyes to the possible directions I could take my designs in.