Planography is a technique used in printmaking, specifically in the field of lithography. It is a versatile method that involves creating an image or artwork directly on a flat printing surface. The term "planography" is derived from the Greek words "plános," meaning flat, and "gráphōs," referring to writing or drawing.
In planography, the image is not produced by carving or raising a relief on the surface; instead, it relies on the principle of oil and water repulsion. The printing surface, typically a metal plate or stone, is prepared with a fine-grained texture to hold the ink. The artist uses a variety of tools, such as greasy crayons or ink, to draw or paint directly onto the plate. The areas that are not intended to be printed are kept water-receptive, while the image or design area is made greasy or ink-receptive.
Once the image is completed on the plate, it is thoroughly moistened, and an oil-based ink is applied. As ink adheres only to the greasy areas, it is repelled by the damp or moist regions. The plate is pressed onto a sheet of paper, and the image is transferred through pressure, resulting in a mirror image on the paper.
Planography offers artists a range of creative possibilities due to its capacity for fine details and complex images. It is widely used in various disciplines, including graphic design, illustration, and fine art. With technological advancements, planography techniques are now often combined with digital processes to achieve even more intricate and precise results.
