Deconstructing digital printing technologies: Towards reinstating artistic ingenuity in the production of digital colour prints

Olen, Melissa; Parraman, Carinna; Laidler, Paul

Abstract

This research proposes an alternative perspective to conventional printing workflows. Such workflows are restrictive when standard interfaces conceal self-contained systems, limited by manufacturers’ parameters. This has been observed to inhibit the ability for the artist to accurately pre-visualise the printed output, often leaving them underwhelmed by the results. In response, artists, particularly with experience in analogue processes, have developed bespoke inkjet printing methods that better inform an ideology for technique, method, and approach. In a number of instances, multiple pass printing has been employed to overcome the observed limitations within current inkjet printing systems. This has afforded the artist the opportunity to make changes and enhancements to the image as the print evolves iteratively into the final outcome. This paper explores a deconstructive approach to digital colour printing, including surveying practitioner’s methods for achieving a dynamic relationship with the printing process. The research will present and evaluate new avenues for incorporating a multiple pass printing workflow by modifying existing printing systems towards a transparent, artist centred methodology. The novel approach in this research seeks an individualised workflow in which the artist resumes control over the process.

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (unpublished)
• Conference Name: Fifth International Conference on the Image
• Start Date: Oct 29, 2014
• End Date: Oct 30, 2014
• Publication Date: Oct 1, 2014
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Keywords: technique, technologies, visual arts practices
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/811381
• Publisher URL: http://cgpublisher.com/conferences/302/proposals/265/index_html
• Related Public URLs: http://ontheimage.com/the-conference
• Additional Information: Title of Conference or Conference Proceedings : Fifth International Conference on the Image