Ink Transfer Drawings

Lately I've been drawn to old scientific and mechanical diagrams, including the rather fanciful vintage designs for dirigibles and hot air balloons. 

I created a series of quick sketches based on some of these diagrams, then rolled the back of the sketches with printers ink. I then laid the paper lightly on top of pattern paper and retraced the image.

This technique, somewhat similar to monotype printmaking, works without a printing press. In effect, I become the printing press as I trace the images, transferring the ink on the back of the image to the paper beneath.

What I love about this technique is that you can't control it. Where ever the papers meet, the ink will transfer, thus creating rather ethereal, one-of-a-kind images.

This series was gifted to Hirsch Wellness Network for their yearly Art Lives Here auction which allows Hirsch to provide creativity workshops for cancer patients, survivors, and care givers.