Collaborative printmaking

Back in January 2011 my friend and I applied to be a part of "City of the World" puzzleprint. Maria Arango Las Vegas, Nevada,USA , MCPP Puzzle Prints . (puzzleprints.blogspot.com) is the lady with the wonderful talent of pulling this amazing piece of artwork together. "City of the World" was her third puzzle print and I kept my own journal as it developed.

Those who committed themselves to do this were sent a special size and shaped block of wood which we weren't allowed to change in any way apart from carving an image of our own choice. The mysterious part was naturally we didn't know where our piece fitted in the puzzle but I found as I think others did also that the actual shape of the block influenced the image.

Unbeliveably over one hundred artists, world wide submitted a block which Maria and her happy band of helpers assembled , which to me is mindboggling when I stop to consider the process. I was so pleased and could really appreciate their efforts as I created the journal through the stages.Maria , who has a wonderful sense of humour and so easy to relate with via the web also possess a never ending energy level.

From the planning stage of the whole image, buying of materials, organising helpers etc and keeping everyone up to date on the progress just shows a little bit of her enthusiasm and her love of printmaking.

I know I am so very proud to have been a part of this wonderful project and very willing to participate again. Only two prints are in my hometown.

My small block of wood, I was very keen to start and did a trial run on the reverse to test my tools and the texture of the wood. I was slightly struck in regards to the shape of the block resembling my state of Queensland.

My drawing on paper and I also did one with shaded areas to guide me through the carving stage.

This is the block ready to be returned . Maria asked everyone to include a sheet of our local newpaper. I thought that this was a brilliant way to learn more about each person.

And here is the print, all five full size papers which made it about 2.something meters long. I have yet to frame it but I do have a hanging position for it.

The framing situation will take a while as to protect it under glass won't be a cheap exercise and I do want to preserve it as much as possible.

I know this print will provide me with pleasure for years to come as each time I view it there is always a new "something" to find. There will be many hours spent admiring other's techniques and mark making.