Originating in China in the Song Dynasty (960-1279 CE), silkscreen painting has been a popular medium for the reproduction of fine art, wall paper and fabric.
Andy Warhol (1928-1987), one of the most popular pop artists of modern times, was known for his work as a silkscreen artist. His repetitive images are known throughout the world. The artist William Morris was also known for his use of silkscreen painting methods. Morris gained acclaim for his repetitive images of flora that were often developed into wallpaper.
The printing plate for this method is called the screen, which is a frame covered with a fine mesh. The mesh is coated with a light-sensitive emulsion or film that blocks the holes in the mesh when dry. An artist then forces paint or ink through the screen with a squeegee onto the printing surface. The artist can create repeated, identical paintings in this fashion.
Screen or silkscreen painting or printing is also known as serigraphy. Traditionally, silk fabric was used in screen painting.
Silkscreen kits are widely available at most art supply stores and on the Internet. You can also build screens by recycling old picture and window frames. Screens are reusable after clearing the emulsion or film from the screen.
Silkscreen painting is a great classroom project that can be used to reproduce posters, tee shirts, greeting cards and a myriad of other items.