Did we ever discuss why the pod is called Platemark? The term platemark refers to the indentation at the edge of a printed image that indicates the outer edges of the printing matrix. This term is used mainly with intaglio prints, etchings, etc. Anything on a metal plate. This is mainly because the visible platemark is a hallmark of this technique. By contrast, you generally don’t find platemarks on screenprints, lithographs, or woodcuts. But you can sense the edges of the matrix. It’s that visible or invisible barrier that marks the edges of the image area. In terms of the pod, I think of it as a conceptual framework within which we can talk about anything print related.
Image: Musashino Art University https://art-design-glossary.musabi.ac.jp/plate-mark/.
The platemark stands as a symbol encapsulating the conceptual rigor and essence of a work of art. It also serves as the framework within which the artist's vision is realized. It defines boundaries, encapsulating the artist's intentions and the essence of the artwork within its confines. Understanding the platemark opens up avenues for discussions within the printmaking ecosystem and it serves as a lens through which we can explore the intricate interplay between technique, artistic vision, and historical context. It helps us delve into the artist's creative process, their choice of materials, and the socio-political backdrop against which the artwork was conceived. Through such discussions, we not only deepen our appreciation for the craft but also gain insights into broader themes spanning culture, identity, and human expression unlocking the hidden stories and nuances that lie within. Through our podcast, we shine a spotlight on the platemark as not just a physical boundary but a gateway to understanding the profound depths of printmaking and its enduring legacy.
