Progressive Proofs
The making of a multi-color
lithograph is both aesthetically and technically a complex process of
image-building. Every shape and possible color pattern must be conceived in
advance prior to making any drawings. Once the image has been broken down
conceptually, all of the individual drawings are drawn on stones or plates.
Because of the complexity of R.C. Gorman's color lithographs, each stone or
plate often carries several separate drawings to be printed in their own
individual colors with separate rollers. Working closely with the
collaborating printer, the artist first draws each part of the image in
black. The drawing is then chemically fixed to the stone or plate, rolled up
and proofed in black ink prior to proofing in color. Impressions pulled in
black ink of the individual drawings on stones or plates are called
separation proofs.
During the proofing process, each of
the drawings made on the stones and plates are printed in sequence in color.
At this point the black ink is washed out and the stone or plate is rolled
up in color ink. Impressions pulled in color of the individual drawings are
called color separation proofs.
They record the colors of each individual run on separate sheets of paper.
For example, the first color separation proof will show color A, the second
color separation proof will show color B, and so on.
To make a finished lithograph, the
separate stones or plates are sequentially printed in the colors of the
edition, each color superimposed over the previous colors. Colors printed in
sequence, on individual sheets of paper, one over the other, from a
combination of stones or plates, but short of the final print, are called
progressive proofs. For example, the first progressive
proof will show color A, the second progressive proof will show colors A and
B, the third progressive proof will show colors A, B and C, and so on with
each color added on each successive proof. The complexity of multi-color
lithographs is best illustrated by the progress proofs of Bead Maker.
Western Graphics
Workshop, Inc. is offering this entire set of 24 Progressive Proofs of the
lithograph Bead Maker, which was featured in R.C.
Gorman: The Graphic Works for $12,000.00, (the suggested retail is $32,000.00). All
proofs are signed and numbered by the artist.
Size of each Progressive Proof: 25 1/2"
x 34"
Western Graphics Workshop, Inc.
R.C. Gorman