Dennis O’Malley

An admitted lifelong lover of the city of Chicago, I have always been interested in demonstrating that fondness through my art. In 1995, I was introduced to printmaking and the artists at the Chicago Printmakers Collaborative, especially Deborah Maris Lader, Margaret Buchen and Duffy O’Connor. Printmaking in all forms became my focus and I have been working at the Collaborative ever since, focusing on Chicago scenes and those limitless possibilities.

Printmaking concentration can be in intaglio printing, monotypes, Polaroid transfer. I seem to gravitate especially to the etching process, a form of intaglio printmaking, which began in the Middle Ages and was popularized by Durer, Rembrandt and James Whistler. Childe Hassam returned to Etching in 1909 and created many plates until 1919.

Intaglio printing refers to lines etched or drawn into the surface of a metal plate (either zinc or copper). The plate is dipped in acid which etches the lines into the plate. Ink is rolled over the plate and then, the plate and paper are run through the press, transferring the ink to the paper. Etching produces special aesthetic results because of the various choices of papers, inks, and printing techniques.

I usually finish my pieces with watercolor and chine colle. Collaborating with fellow printmakers allows me to absorb the techniques of other skilled artists while magnifying my enjoyment at the same time. I have been exposed to some special people that share their experiences. Making art in this fashion makes going to the Collaborative on Western Avenue a lot more fun.

Email: www.dennisbomalley.org
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