Leaf Printing at the Carnegie

With the help of a small press, a lot of printers’ ink and the imaginations of more than 40 participants of all ages, autumn leaves became the stars of the Albany Public Library Foundation’s leaf printing workshop at the Carnegie, Saturday, September 19.

The Foundation supplied the ink, the paper in various colors, the tools, the ‘paint shirts’ (to protect clothing), the hand-turned press, and a wide variety of leaves as well as the expert assistance and advise of Cheryl French, a local artist. Many of the participants brought their own leaves to add to the abundance.

Leaf printing involves inking a plexiglass plate with a background color or colors, then inking one side of the leaf or leaves chosen for that honor, then carefully placing the leaf or leaves (inked side up) onto the background plate after which a slightly dampened sheet of paper is put on top of the composition and the entire thing is run through the press – carefully back and forth – by the artist. The results are always stunning – bright colors and crisp shapes.

The participants had five prepared and stocked tables downstairs in the Carnegie to work on. Once they were finished the inking, they placed their work on the press and hand cranked it – slowly and carefully – to create the final product.

The Foundation’s next art event at the Carnegie involves inventive flower/plant arrangements in the style of Ikebana artists. The event is scheduled for 10:30 am to noon, Saturday, October 17. All necessary materials, including flower frogs to help hold the creations upright, will be provided by the Foundation. The event is free and open to all ages.