Definition
Relief Reduction (suicide printing) is a printmaking technique where the artist carves away parts of a printing block, typically made of wood or linoleum, to create an image. The raised areas that remain are inked and pressed onto paper, producing a print. This method allows for intricate designs and is often used in relief printing, making it a valuable process for artists and printmakers.
How It’s Used in Printmaking
In relief printing, the artist starts by selecting a block of wood or linoleum. They then draw their design on the surface and carefully carve out the areas they do not want to print. Once the design is complete, ink is applied to the raised surfaces using a brayer. The block is then pressed onto paper to transfer the ink, creating a print. This method is accessible for beginners, as it requires minimal tools, yet it also offers advanced techniques for professionals to explore detailed imagery and textures.
History & Origins
Relief Reduction printing has roots that trace back to ancient times, with origins in East Asia around the 7th century. It became widely recognized in Europe during the Renaissance, where artists like Albrecht Dürer popularized the technique. The method was often used to create illustrations for books and to produce fine art prints, showcasing its importance in both cultural and artistic contexts throughout history.
Variations & Related Terms
There are several variations of relief printing, including woodcut and linocut. While woodcut uses wood blocks, linocut employs softer linoleum, allowing for easier carving. Both methods share similarities but differ in texture and ease of use. Relief Reduction is distinct as it involves carving away more material than traditional relief methods, creating a unique style.
- See also: Woodcut
- See also: Linocut
- See also: Intaglio
Modern Applications
Today, Relief Reduction printing is embraced by artists and hobbyists alike, with many experimenting with eco-friendly inks and materials. Digital tools have also influenced the process, allowing for designs to be created and transferred to blocks more easily. This technique remains relevant in contemporary art, offering a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation for printmakers.
Practical Tips & Products
When using Relief Reduction (suicide printing), choose high-quality carving tools and suitable blocks, such as linoleum or soft wood. Start with smaller sizes to practice your technique. Always use safety gloves when carving to prevent injuries. For those interested in getting started, Hickman Design offers kits that include essential tools and materials for beginners to explore this exciting printmaking method.
Related Guides & Articles
Related Relief & Lino Glossary Terms
- Relief printing – the parent process for reduction printing.
- Linocut – reduction is one of the most common advanced lino techniques.
- Woodcut – also practised in woodblock reduction printing.
- Key block – often contrasted with reduction printing (multi-block vs. single block).
- Registration – vital for successive colour layers in reduction.
- Registration colour – related to aligning colours in a reduction sequence.
- Registration pins – a common tool for keeping layers precise in reduction.
- Overprinting – layering colours is central to reduction technique.
- Viscosity printing – another multi-colour method that contrasts with reduction.
- Pulling a print – repeated after each carving stage.
How-to Guides (where reduction is applied or contrasted)
- Lino printing process guide – base process that leads into reduction methods.
- Multicolour lino printing – discusses approaches including reduction vs multi-block.
- 10 lino print ideas for beginners – simple projects that can introduce reduction basics.
- Why is my lino print not working? – reduction issues often involve mis-registration or uneven pressure.
Equipment & Tools (supporting content)
- Lino printing equipment explained – overview of tools used in reduction (cutting tools, registration aids).
- Pfeil lino cutting tools – ideal for controlled carving in progressive stages.
- Lino printing rollers and brayers – crucial for inking multiple layers cleanly.
- Lino printing kit review – many kits support beginner reduction experiments.
- Different types of printmaking press – presses help keep consistency across reduction stages.
Portfolio Context (examples relevant to layered relief)
- Lino printing works – multi-colour lino prints in your portfolio (e.g. Vietnam War, Tilbury Docks) are strong examples of reduction-style outcomes.
- Wood-block printing: Sphere – another relief context where reduction principles apply.
