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Printmaking

Weaving

What We Do

Traditional Printmaking

Printmaking is the process of making artworks by printing, normally on paper. Except in the case of mono-typing, the process is capable of producing multiples of the same piece, which is called a ‘print’.
Prints are created from an original surface, prepared by or under supervision of the artist.  Common types of matrices include: metal plates for engraving or etching, stones for lithography, blocks of wood for woodcuts and wood engravings, linoleum for linocuts; and fabric for screen-printing.

At Atelier S8 we focus on traditional printmaking techniques: intaglio, relief and lithography.

Tapestry Weaving

Tapestry is a form of textile art, traditionally woven on a vertical loom.
Tapestry is weft-faced weaving, in which all the warp threads are hidden in the completed work, unlike cloth weaving where both the warp and the weft threads may be visible. In tapestry weaving, weft yarns are typically discontinuous; the weaver interlaces each coloured weft back and forth in its own small pattern area to form a picture or pattern.

Most weavers use a natural warp thread, such as linen or cotton. The weft threads are usually wool or cotton, but may include silk, gold, silver, or other alternatives.

Picture Framing

The frame around a work of art is the finishing touch, the element that completes and elevates a painting, presenting it to the viewer in its best possible light. Framing, however, is an art in and of itself, and just as a good frame choice can greatly enhance the appearance of a work, a poor frame choice can drastically diminish a work.

We offer a large selection of frame mouldings and matboards, and can also modify or combine mouldings to create customized frames.  For special requirements we also offer handcrafted, custom-made frames.

Cultural Heritage

The tradtional techniques used in fine art printmaking dates back several centuries.  By using, developing and teaching these techniques, we contribute to the preservation of our cultural heritage.
We also preserve cultural heritage by the use of vintage printing presses.  Our main litography press is over 100 years old, and is currently being completely refurbished to make it usable for many more years.
Weaving is an even older art form.  The craft of textile weaving dating back to the stone age, and woven tapestries have been used since at least Hellenistic times.

The upright, warp-weighted tapestry looms we use are similar to looms used in the Neolithic period.  This type of loom was once in extensive use throughout Europe, but diminished in popularity and disappeared from common use in most areas. Warp-weighted looms remained in use in some locations in Norway and among the Sami people in Norway and Finland.

Tradition and Innovation

The history of printmaking is a history of experiments and innovations.  While we continue to use vintage printing presses and traditional techniques, we also seek to integrate new materials, tools and technologies into the processes.

Sustainable Processes

One focus area for innovation and development is the replacement of hazardous chemicals.

Many conventional printmaking processes involves the use of harmful and toxic chemicals: Acids, solvents, and pigments.  Most of these chemicals can be replaced by non-toxic materials. At Atelier S8 we make effort to reduce the use of harmful materials and contribute to the further development of sustainable printmaking processes.