Louise Naughton Morgan, aka The Human Printer, takes on the role of the digital printer by breaking down images into their basic CMYK halftones, then spending up to 12-15 hours laboriously re-constructing them using felt tip pens, one layer after the next. Morgan's recent solo show at Shoreditch's KK Gallery was a great success and amidst all the hype and-dot-after-dot-after dot...I managed to tear her away for a quick interview.Me: You said in a recent interview that our society has got too scattered with machinery and we've lost the essence of 'hand crafting'- can you explain this further?
I don't really want to dwell too much on this particular subject as I think there's been a lot said and written about it already. Its a subject people are very aware of. As a generalisation, my work reflects how our society is changing in to a more solitary and sterile place to live due to the reliance and use of technology. Though it has enhanced our communication opportunities and speed to complete tasks, it has removed the essence of the human touch.
Artists have often explored the idea of the 'reproduced'. Is this a continual theme we're going to see in your works? What else interests you?
I think the idea of the reproduced is a good communication tool. It is not something I wish to focus on or have as a continual theme, but mo something I utilise where I think necessary. My work is focused upon occurrences of every day life, through the creation of systems and processes, focusing on comparisons, analytical studies and humour.
Do you think artists rely too much on technology to help produce their work?
I wouldn't say so. Unlike traditional art which was concerned with skill and craft, contemporary art relies more often upon the concept. If the use of technology makes sense within your concept - helping to convey your message and aiding the development of an art work- I see no reason why it should not be used.
How long does an average print work take you?
How long does an average print work take you?
Most of the prints that I do are around A4/A3 size. In general these take me about 12-15 hours, though the time alters due to the darkness and complexity of the image. Technology is an integral aspect of modern day life, so much so, that without it we may not be able to function.
You're style is similar to Pointillism, was this an influence?
No not at all. The process I developed was based upon the digital printing process and was developed as a reaction to the over production and over reliance on technological output. It just happens that the output is very similar in nature to pointillism.
You've just exhibited your work at the KK Gallery- was this your first solo show?
You've just exhibited your work at the KK Gallery- was this your first solo show?
It is indeed, although its exhibiting as 'The Human Printer' rather than Louise Naunton Morgan. The project is not about me but rather a team of people providing a service.
What's next on the agenda?
What's next on the agenda?
Flags, symbols, degeneration, construction, production, repetition, repetition, repetition, repetition.........
You can read more about Louise and The Human Printer at any of the following links:
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