Abstract Monotype No 885: Textures and Layers on Gelli Plate

This video documents the full process of creating abstract monoprint No 885 using a Gelli plate. The work begins with texture — acrylic paint applied directly to the silicone surface using a palette knife and a credit card with one edge notched by a hacksaw. The notched edge works like a comb, dragging through wet paint to create rhythmic parallel lines; the knife builds up irregular masses of colour. Three colours are used: black, white and terracotta. Each layer is applied wet, allowing the colours to partially blend at the edges without fully mixing. A registration guide keeps the paper aligned during printing. From a Gelli plate, only a single print is ever pulled — one impression, one result. What transfers to the paper, what stays on the plate, where the paint tears — these are decisions made by the material, not the hand. The print cannot be repeated. No 885 is available in the store.