Print Works to make impression at Ross Creek

IAN Kemp’s latest collection of photographic artwork, Print Works, will open at Ross Creek Gallery tomorrow.

The exhibition features photogravure printing, a technique that involves etching digital images onto photopolymer plates and making traditional intaglio prints on a press.

“The process ultimately combines the best elements of both, creating beautiful tonal images with deep blacks and crisp whites,” said Kemp.

“I enjoy black and white photography.

“I have been lucky to work with Silvi Glattauer from Baldessin Press who has helped me combine my photographic skills with printmaking.

“In the Print Works exhibition, I have ventured into the use of colour with some prints, adding tactile and sensory qualities into the works.”

In Print Works, Kemp captures images of winter and spring.

“They are a reminder of stages in our lives, and they are related,” he said.

“Winter is a time of so much beauty; nature is stripped bare, we see the structure of trees which are no longer hidden by the foliage, it is a time for quiet reflection.

“In spring, nature comes to life and all that was happening in winter is revealed.”

Kemp was recently short-listed in the Martin Kantor Portrait Prize for his portrayal of Olympic high jumper Yual Reath.

“I was honoured, both to be short-listed and to be able to have Yual as my subject,” he said.

“Yual had to fund his own trip to the Olympics, unlike many of the big-name athletes.”

The winner of the Martin Kantor Portrait Prize will be announced on Sunday 24 August.

Print Works will be displayed at Ross Creek Gallery until 31 August, open every weekend 11am to 4pm or by appointment.