A Glimpse Behind the Artwork.

Drawing is the most direct method of expression and is the basis of all Kathleen Zimmerman’s printwork. Below we are sharing a video in which Kathleen talks about the creation of Midday Star. Click on the arrow to watch this short two minute video.

Serigraphy, commonly known as silkscreen printing, is a modern printmaking mode with a very old history. Its origins can be traced to the Song Dynasty (960-1279) in China and made its appearance in Europe in the 18th century. It is a stencil-based printing process, that has been used widely for commercial purposes but has evolved over time so that it can be used to make fine art. Artists like Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Andy Warhol, Peter Max, Shepard Fairy, and Kathleen Zimmerman, have all used this method to create works of art.

The most important part of the process is making great drawings. Zimmerman understands this and creates her drawings, not only as works of art on their own, but thinking about how they will translate into serigraphs. Her thoughtful use of the white of the paper, her textured shading and her attention to the negative space all are essential in her drawings and silkscreens. A few images of the process are shown below.

Intaglio printmaking emerged in Germany in the late 1430s. Goldsmiths first used engraving to decorate metalwork by rubbing an alloy into the lines to give a contrasting color. It has been suggested that the idea of making paper prints from engraved plates began as a means to keep a record of designs and to check the quality. 

Intaglio is now a term used for a wide variety of printmaking techniques that use metal plates which have an image cut or etched into it. Ink is pushed into the recessed image and then rubbed with cloth and newsprint to remove any surface ink. Then dampened paper covered by a blanket is layered on top the plate and run through an etching press. Just like serigraphy, the most important part of the process is the image. A few images of Zimmerman’s Zoo Series going through the process are shown below.

The lost wax method of casting is the process Zimmerman uses to translate her clay, or plaster, originals into bronze. The ancient Chinese also used this method of casting during the Shang dynasty to create Chinese ritual bronzes. The ancient Egyptians created small bronze figurines while the Greeks created the first life-sized castings using this method. Today, Zimmerman uses this method to cast her bronze sculpture.

The most important part of this process is the creation of a form that will work well in bronze. Kathleen Zimmerman has a background in foundry work so knows this intimately. Her use of smooth abstract planes, curving linear edges and inset texture makes her work perfect for casting. Below are a few images of Zimmerman’s sculpture going through the process.