What is a linocut?

A linocut is a relief print carved into a linoleum block using a tool designed for that purpose.  The block is then inked with a roller and printed, either by hand burnishing or with a press.  

What do you mean by Celtic Art Linocut Prints? 

I think we all have some idea of what Celtic Art is. The inspiration for my particular designs comes from ancient illuminated Christian manuscripts, namely the Book of Kells and the Lindisfarne Gospels.  The decorative designs of interlacing human, animal, floral and abstract motifs, were created as part of the Four Gospels contained in these books.

Always in awe of these magnificent works and enchanted by their intricate and ornamental subject matter, I set out to re-create a selection of their motifs in a contemporary way through the technique of linoblock printing.  The result is that each print is a "one off" original, it being impossible to exactly re-create the same print twice.

How did you do it?

First I draw the picture I want to carve onto the linoleum block.  Next, I carve the design into the block.  Afterwards, I apply ink to the block with a roller and print the whole business onto heavy guage watercolour paper.  I then repeat these steps twice over to impart a multi-dimensional quality to each image. 

Celtic Art Linocut Prints make a fabulous gift to yourself or someone special.  They are unique pieces of original art at a highly affordable price. 

Enjoy the work!