Let’s talk about art!
Let’s start with how the Larousse dictionary describes art:
“Any activity or product of human activity that aims to express an idea or emotion through the creation of an artwork, whatever the manner and means, including sounds, languages, gestures, the environment, etc.”.
Doesn’t this remind you of a familiar process in the textile industry?
It certainly reminds us of one! The art of marking. Today, we’re going to take a closer look at one of the seven most popular techniques: screen printing…
Yes, what you do every day in your workshop or factory is art in its own right.
A little history… Screen printing originated in China in the 10th century, with the Song dynasty, and was popularised in its modern form in 1910! That’s impressive, isn’t it?
In the promotional textiles sector, screen printing is known as a direct printing technique for customising a garment or accessory.
But in fact, for many decades now, it has been found throughout the art world.
Does Pop art mean anything to you? Andy Warhol, his Campbell’s soup cans and his Marilyn series? It’s all screen printing, and it’s become iconic.
Modern artists are increasingly turning to this ancient technique to express their art. In fact, you may have heard of three of the most famous artists in this field: Vivienne Westwood, Yohji Yamamoto and Virgil Abloh.
An incredible comeback for an age-old technique! It’s all about stencils, beautiful ink colours and a good dose of creativity!
But let’s get back to you!
Every time you prepare your screens, choose your inks and meticulously line up your next piece to print, you’re a bit like artists in residence, in your own art studio. Except that your studio is the workshop and your canvas is anything that can hold ink.
And don’t forget, screen printers,the next time you find yourselves in front of your press,remember that it’s not just a t-shirt,a bag or a cap that you’re printing,in a way it’s a canvas on which to express yourself.
If there’s one thing we can wish for you, it’s that you don’t put any limits on your creativity!
Happy printing!
