All about silkscreens

The centuries-old process, which is used by Pop Art pioneer James Francis Gill and for the songwriter and artist Bob Dylan’s iconic collection, The Beaten Path, silkscreening is a complex and highly-skilled method of reproduction. An artform in its own right, each colour is printed separately meaning the process to complete the edition can take months.

Read on to find out more about silkscreens and shop our collector’s favourite artworks below.

It Started With A Kiss

James McQueen

₩3,250,000 (Ex VAT)

Sold out

Limited Edition

Motorcycle Riders

Bob Dylan

₩21,566,660 (Ex VAT)

Available

Limited Edition

Cosmic

Johnny Depp

₩7,500,000 (Ex VAT)

Available

Limited Edition

Tribeca Rider

Richard Hambleton

₩16,583,333 (Ex VAT)

Available

Limited Edition

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Unveiling the Artistry Behind Silkscreen Printing

Also known as silk-screening or serigraphy, silkscreen printing involves using a tightly-stretched mesh or screen (hence the name!). The first step is to mount the silkscreens over your chosen canvas, with a separate screen for each colour. Once the screens or stencils are in place, artists roll, press, sponge or squeegee their ink or paint over the silkscreens to leave a design.

Other materials – including polyester mesh, nylon threads and even stainless steel – can be used in the process. Different types of mesh size will determine the outcome and look of the finished piece.

Tracing the Roots

Silkscreens are believed to have originated in China as far back as 1000 years ago. The technique was introduced to Western Europe by Asia in the late 18th century, but was not widely used until silk mesh became easier to get hold of.

In the 20th century, Pop Art pioneers like Andy Warhol and James Francis Gill brought silkscreens to the forefront of contemporary art. Before this time, screenprinting techniques had been considered trade secrets and were kept confidential. Many regarded the art form with scepticism, as the reliance on a machine questioned the typical view of art creation as direct contact between the artist and medium.

Today, it is an important technique that is used by artists all over the world.