February Feature 2019: Edzná / Copán / Maya

Carol Robertson, 2014 - 2016

Pictured: Edzná series of monoprints (2014)

In 2014, Carol Robertson made a trip to Central America, taking particular interest in sites of Mayan archaeology and culture. In the subsequent two years, Robertson made a number of monoprints at PSC.

The artist’s concern for the emblematic shape of the circle hints towards Mayan calendars from which solar, lunar, stellar and mythological readings could traditionally be made. With her use of the circle, Robertson not only makes a visual parallel to these cultural influences, but also uses the shape to imbue her own memories and observations. The layers of context are reflected in the application of colour where up to nine different screens were used to lay down the concentric rings. Compressed into precise spherical confines, the image is constructed and unlocked through layers of transparent ink, each one scrutinisingly placed to allow registration with its predecessor below. This process allowed the experimentation with many colour configurations, cross-referencing each other – these animations revealing a rhythm and vibration to the series, the circles appearing to expand and contract.

I. ‘Edzná’ (2014), is named after a Maya site located in Mexico

Carol & Kip with Copán monoprint (2015)

II. ‘Copán’ (2016), takes its reference to another site in Honduras

‘Maya’ seen in-situ. Image: @becshomestyle

A further related print seen above, ‘Maya’ (2014), was produced as a Daedalus Print Club edition.

Robertson's 2011 print 'Starcross' will be included as part of the upcoming exhibition, The Art of Collaboration. Opening in less than two weeks time at The Heong Gallery, and runs 1 March – 19 May. The artist holds this edition, and you can contact us for sales through our email info@theprintstudio.com.