The NOVA Print
Gerard is trained as a traditional printmaker using lithography and etching methods. He has devised a new printmaking technique called the NOVA print. In this technique Gerard creates an image or imports one into a computer. He then prints the image on an acetate sheet using an ink jet printer. Because the acetate is oil based and the ink jet printer uses water-based ink, the image sits up on the acetate and is not absorbed. The acetate sheet is then used as a traditional printing plate and pressed on to print paper thereby transferring the ink onto the paper. The resulting print has the feel and magic of a traditional print rather than the mechanical feel of a simple computer printout.