My lino work uses a multi block reduction method, each colour is cut and printed from a separate piece of lino. After much planning, each colour design is carefully transferred to the lino and then cut out. The whole design is then proofed and a print is created. This can then be used to adjust any problems in the registration and design. Next using oil based printing inks, a final edition is printed. Every print is an original hand pulled by the artist not a mere copy. The final prints are therefore Original artist's prints. I choose a heavy weight 300gsm paper which is hot pressed for a smooth surface to produce my editions on. The purchase of a 130 year old press has allowed a greater range of sizes to be printed. Each print will take several months to develop, cut and print in an edition of between 40-60 depending on the size and variations.
Paul Cleden studied illustration at College after which he worked in London as a freelance illustrator. In 1995 he and his family moved to Dorset where he spent some years teaching printmaking and photography. Now he works full time as a printmaker, illustrator and writer. His printmaking work currently focuses on linocuts. 'I love to look at figurative movement; consequently sports are often featured because of the dynamic shapes and action, but equally a crowd of rush hour people leaving a train, people browsing a market or a dance hall crowded with figures are wonderful inspiration. the nature of linocut allows for the use of lovely flowing lines and dramatic overlap of colours which i feel fits very well into the subjects i am drawn to, My linocuts are in the tradition of Lill Tschudi, Sybil Andrews and Cyril Power, and more recently Michael Rothenstein and Edward Bawden amongst many others". He has worked with a number of clients including National Trust, Bloomsbury Publishers, RSPB, Wetherspoon's, Art Angels, David Watson Silk, Orford Ottway.