An Investigation into the Use of Cement-based Materials: as Alternative Printmaking Substrates

Abstract

The work presented in this paper reports on the possibility of using fine arts printmaking techniques to print images onto cement-based materials. Fine arts printmaking studio methods, such as etching, lithography, and relief, are tried on concrete plates. These methods are based on a direct transfer of matter as they use ink. For each printmaking technique, several combinations of different types of matrix, vehicle, and substrate (base-material) formulations were tested. The project involved more than 80 experiments with different printing solutions. Results demonstrated that a few techniques can be successfully used to permanently reproduce detailed photographic and drawn images onto a cement-based material substrate. With the development of this basic knowledge over the technical performance obtained with each technique, it was possible to develop a more profound artistic concept. The design of the substrate was adjusted to meet specific artistic requirements, bringing together the boundaries of art and material sciences in this multidisciplinary project.