Print of The Month: January 2020
Willard Boepple, Barn (Yellow)
Date: 2019
Size (cm - unframed): 86 x 69
Technique: Screenprint
Materials: Somerset Velvet 300gsm
Edition size: 20
The luminous and prismatic form in ‘Barn’ is undoubtedly another highlight to be selected from 2019. This large print - also produced in a red colourway - is constructed using a combination of three quadrilateral shapes. The resulting folded structure is a perfect example of how the layering of transparent shapes work together to construct the depth of a three-dimensional body.
The process used to produce these prints uses much of the same vocabulary of the initial collaborative projects between Kip and Boepple back in 2004. The sculptor now makes regular visits to the UK from New York, in last year calling by the studio on 4 separate occasions to produce new work.
A key strategy to developing each image is in the preparation before Boepple arrives in the studio. Imagery is discussed, stencils made and the screens exposed in order for the work to begin immediately.
“The addition of each layer is a discovery in an ongoing adventure. The time is precious and the decision making intense. It is hard work at play.”
- Willard Boepple
‘Structural Play’ article in Printmaking Today, Issue 106 (Summer 2018)
‘Barn (Yellow)' (detail)
A film recording the studio process with Boepple can be seen below, it documents the printing of ‘George’ a separate monoprint series which experimented with various layering alternatives including working upon a pre-printed black surface. The same dark ground was applied for ‘Barn (Yellow)’ and acts as a foundation for the layers of vivid yellow to sit upon.
‘Barn (Yellow)’ is an edition of 20 of which copies are available for sale at £1200 including VAT and shipping within the U.K. For shipping outside the U.K., please contact the Studio at info@theprintstudio.co.uk
You can view further print works by the artist in Willard Boepple: Monoprints, a current online exhibition curated by Jo Baring and hosted upon Aleph Contemporary. It includes a collection of unique prints including monoprint versions of ‘Barn’.
Click here to view a special video interview between Boepple and Ingram Collection Director Jo Baring. Discussion and footage covers the development of the artist's career and his relationship between his sculptural and printmaking practice.
The online exhibition is live until March 2020.