A collection of original artwork using printmaking techniques.
Gill Thompson is an artist and printmaker based on the Isle of Lewis.
Her work is constantly evolving and incorporates printmaking techniques (monoprint, linoprint, collagraph) in mixed media compositions as well as pieces using one specific medium.
Much of her current work uses the process of collagraph to create carefully built, complex multi-layered blocks which are then hand printed using an etching press. She is fascinated by constructing printing plates using found materials or carving into card or lino to produce images that reflect the shapes and textures of the natural world.
Each image is unique and reflects the island landscape with its rugged coastline and rich moorland colours and textures. Pictures are signed as v/e which means ‘Variable Edition’. This indicates that every time the plate is inked there will be different colour combinations and the printed image is then hand coloured in places. No two collagraphs are identical although there will be similarites. No more than 5 passes through the etching press are made as the plate gradually becomes unuseable.
This method of producing images is an exciting way of connecting with the environment and portraying some of the features of this beautiful island.
Gill trained at the University of North Carolina Faculty of Arts in theatre design and at Hereford College of Art. She also worked with South African artist Cecily Sash, in Herefordshire.
She has studied printmaking at Hereford College of Art and at The Print Shed, Madley, Herefordshire.
Gill will be teaching a printmaking evening class at An Lanntair in the Autumn.
Website: gillthompsonartistprintmaker.com