The core difference lies in whether the printing surface contains an image or element that can be repeated.
Understanding the nuances between a monotype and a monoprint is key for artists and printmaking enthusiasts. While both techniques result in unique prints, their creation process and the nature of the matrix (the surface holding the ink or paint) differ significantly.
The Fundamental Distinction
Based on printmaking terminology and the provided reference:
- Monotype: Is inherently a one-of-a-kind print. The image is typically created on a flat, non-etched surface (like glass, metal, or plastic) by applying ink or paint directly. Since the ink is applied freely and transfers almost entirely to the paper during printing, there are no repeatable elements left on the matrix for subsequent prints. Each print is unique because the matrix must be re-inked and redrawn or repainted for every impression.
- Monoprint: Is usually a variation on a series. This means the matrix contains some form of repeatable pattern or image (e.g., an etched line, a carved relief, a stencil, or a collaged element). Additional, non-repeatable elements are then added (like unique inking, drawing, or wiping) before printing. While the underlying pattern or element is consistent across potential prints, the unique additions make each printed impression different.
As the reference states: "A monoprint is usually a variation on a series, as there is a pattern or image on the painting surface that can be printed multiple times over, in a variety of ways. A monotype is considered one-of-a-kind and does not employ repeatable elements."
Key Characteristics Compared
Let's break down the characteristics using a table:
| Feature | Monotype | Monoprint |
|---|---|---|
| Repeatability | No repeatable elements on the matrix. | Has some repeatable element(s) on the matrix (etching, relief, stencil, etc.). |
| Uniqueness | Each print is completely unique. | Each print is unique due to variable inking/drawing, but based on a constant underlying element. |
| Matrix | Flat surface (glass, metal, plastic, etc.) with no permanent image. | Matrix with a permanent or semi-permanent image/texture. |
| Process | Image drawn/painted directly on the matrix; transfers fully to paper. | Permanent element is inked/printed, with unique additions made for each print. |
| Nature | More akin to a painted or drawn print. | A print from a matrix with unique variations added. |
Practical Examples
Consider these scenarios:
- Monotype: An artist paints a landscape scene directly onto a smooth copper plate using printer's ink. They then run the plate and paper through a press, transferring the image. To make another print, they must clean the plate and paint the scene again, which will inevitably result in a different image.
- Monoprint: An artist creates an etching of a tree trunk on a copper plate. For each print, they ink the etched lines, but then they might:
- Add different colors of ink to the non-etched areas.
- Wipe the plate differently.
- Draw unique leaves or birds onto the plate before printing.
- Apply chine-collé (adding thin paper) in different shapes.
The tree trunk lines are repeatable, but the additions make each print unique.
In essence, a monotype is a print of a unique image painted onto a matrix, while a monoprint is a unique print pulled from a matrix that contains a part that could be printed again.
