Q: Who is ddodde?
A: ddodde is me; David Dodde (dotty). Since '91 an artist and a printmaker. You could consider me a print purist because I prefer to print air-dry inks by hand. The work I do for myself and my clients is done with the same great care, craftsmanship, and attention to detail which everyone can appreciate.

Q: What is serigraphy?
A: Simply stated it is the use of screen printing to produce fine art originals and reproductions.

Q: How is serigraphy done?
A: Serigraphy is done by screen printing one color at a time onto high quality papers or canvas. Each color is printed then set aside to dry before the next color can be applied.

Q: Why use serigraphy?
A: Many artists choose serigraphy because of the collectibility of the prints. Most prints are done in low-runs which give artists the ability to offer people a unique and collectable version of their work, while maintaining a level of exclusivity. Other common reasons include the overall impact of serigraphs compared to other forms of reproduction and the relative ease of publishing.

Q: Why is the color so effective with serigraphy?
A: Most printed materials we see are printed using a method called lithography and employ a technique called "four color process." The technique attempts to reproduce the entire color spectrum, or box of crayons, using a combination of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. With serigraphy each color is mixed specifically to the color desired, producing a rich vibrant color. It's the difference between blending two crayons together to make a color or coloring with one crayon specifically… the outcome is noticeably different.

Q: Can photographs be printed using serigraphy?
A: The short answer is yes, but not to the outcome you would expect. In order to reproduce a photograph to look like what you see on your camera or computer you must use "four color process" to achieve the subtle shades and tones of the image. A reproduced photograph which uses serigraphy must first be converted to a single color halftone (small dots) image for screen preparation. This very action removes a photographs subtle colors leaving you with essentially a black and white image, made up of visible dots (think Andy Warhol).

Q: What method of art is best reproduced with serigraphy?
A: Illustrative styles, both analog and digital reproduce magnificently. It is one of the only methods that can accurately reproduce an illustration's color and clarity. Even laser and Giclée (zhee-klay) printers use "four color process" or a variation to reproduce an image, so color compromises are always a reality.

Q: Are serigraphs archival?
A: The paper and ink we use is archival, however the same precautions should be followed concerning any wall-hanging art. Keep the work out of direct sunlight, have it framed under glass (UV safe is possible), and be sure it's in a dry place. These simple steps will help protect the work and keep it bright and flawless for future collectors.