Print - Embossed Linear Constructions

Given by the Josef Albers Foundation

Exhibitions: See note on Alviani at E.2

The technique by which these prints were produced represents a development from the blind etching used in his Intaglio Solo series of the late 1950s and early 1960s. Kenneth Tyler, Master Printer at Gemini G.E.L., described the process: "The very precise line drawings of Albers dictated the use of mechanical means to assimilate his drawings into embossings. Investigations led to a system of programmed tape engraving. Collaboration between the artist, myself and an engineering programmer established the exact profiles for each line and the proper thickness of paper. The engineering programmer translated the original artist's drawing to a digital mylar tape. The tape then directed an automatic engraving mill, with specially designed cutting heads which cut into the printing plates the mirror image of the original drawings. Embossing ...was executed in a hydraulic forming machine. The use of heat and excessive pressure secured the image permanently into the mould-made paper fibres."

E.60:5-1994