New Prints

New Prints is a continuation of Tom Lecuyer’s exploration into the fundamental elements of printmaking. In this new body of work, Lecuyer asks the audience to reflect upon the printmaking process and to question the nature of a print in general. His work references the Modernist re-thinking of material hierarchy and the Minimalist tradition of process-based art; in which the process or act of making takes a prominent role in defining the finished artwork.

For this ongoing project, Lecuyer has created several large-scale pieces using a DIY printing press. A large sheet of canvas is run through two rollers fixed to a frame to create each piece. Black oil-based ink is applied to the top roller to create a unique impression on the canvas.

Rather than reproducing text or images, the press itself becomes a tool for creating original artworks. The removal of colour, form and matrix allows the printmaking process to become the focal point of the piece while eluding visual definitions between print and other media.

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Tom Lecuyer studied printmaking at OCAD University. In 2018, he received the Printmaking Award, Fred Hagan Memorial Award, and the Open Studio Prize. He lives with his partner and their beloved cat in downtown Toronto.