Byron image lino cut

Image of Byron

 I wanted to make a better, more detailed lino print of Byron- the face of Newstead Abbey.

This time I've used a more traditional lino with hessian back. I prefer the way it carves as you can chip away more rather than the long streachy carves you get from polymer lino.

I started off sketching a face inspired by the image above and transfered to to the lino, and then drew it in marker pen.

I did quite heavy shade and a few medium tones by cross hatching.

I've hand printed this at home so will be interested to try it in the roller press and also in a few colour ways and paper textures.

This is on 250 sketch book paper that is not particularly absorbent.

I've emphasised his more brooding aspects and left his shirt collar black

To make him a little more ambiguous in his era and identity. Its got a more Rock n roll screen print / pop art look about it. I like it as an image but I want to make something more meaningful for the final piece.