The Making of Prints: Forms and Techniques of Printmaking in Nigeria

Abstract

Printmaking is a novel medium of artistic expression whose invention transcends the necessity to pragmatically disseminate information; it also cuts across the ecstasy of creative experimentation. The print is the ingenious creation of an artist, who instead of the paintbrush and canvas has chosen printmaking tools to express himself. This medium enjoys a considerable influence among the contemporary Nigerian artists who engage in its production as an aesthetic means of expression. How are these prints produced? What form does the prints take, and what techniques are employed? Relying on field investigation, this paper reveals how printmaking artists in Nigeria have explored the possibilities of the medium to create prints in a unique style and form.

Keywords: Printmaking, Nigerian art, printmaking technique, woodcut, intaglio, Bruce Onobrakpeya

DOI: 10.7176/ADS/71-06

Publication date:March 31^st 2019