Karl Stern

Karl’s primary working technique is collagraphy, drawing live or from photos or sketches with a Stanley knife, direct onto acid free board. He works the surface then paints it using pigments mixed in blonde shellac to create a painting. In the making, consideration is given to both how the print will turn out as well as how the printing process will impact on the finished painting. Shellac based paint can be rubbed back or layers built up to provide a richness in colour. Once the surface has set hard the painting is used as an etching plate to print with, after which the plate is cleaned but ink retained in the cuts and textures of the painting to finish the work which is sealed with a clear layer of shellac. This makes for a novel ‘painting’ technique with corresponding prints, but Karl would always maintain that the final image has to capture/convey a feeling or mood to draw the observer.