The Discipline of the Reduction Print
Jacob Brook is a printmaker and web developer based in Brooklyn, NY. His physical practice is centered on the demanding and irreversible reduction linocut method.
In traditional multi-block relief printing, each color requires its own dedicated block. In a reduction print—often termed the “suicide method”—the artist carves away the areas intended to remain the color of the paper, inking and pressing the entire edition with the first tone. The block is then cleaned, and the areas intended to preserve that first color are carved away. The remaining surface is inked with the second tone and printed directly over the first pass.
This sequence of carving, inking, registration, and pressing repeats six, eight, or more than a dozen times. With every successive pass, more of the linoleum is permanently removed. By the final layer, only tiny slivers of the original surface survive to hold the darkest pigment.
The Studio & Lab: Tools in Service of the Hand
Jacob’s studio practice manages to unite his two crafts through the inclusion of software design and engineering. He develops custom computational scripts, including Python GIMP plugins, K-Means palette reduction algorithms, and directional luminance estimators, in order to better model and understand color transitions before carving.
The computation serves only to inform the eye; the physical act of drawing, transfer, gouging, ink-mixing with palette knives, and hand-pulling impressions onto archival paper remains entirely tactile and personal.
Editions & Archival Standards
Because the reduction block is systematically carved away until it is physically exhausted, a reduction edition can never be reprinted or reissued. When an edition is complete, the block is gone forever.
Every print is hand-burnished on archival paper (my current paper stock is mostly BFK Rives Lightweight printmaking paper) using lightfast, professional-grade Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief printing inks. Each print is individually inspected, titled, numbered, and signed in pencil.
Relief Printmaker & Web Developer, Brooklyn NY
Shows
Upcoming Exhibitions
Society of American Graphic Artists Mini-Gems Exhibition →
SAGA Gallery · 32 Union Sq E, Suite 1214, New York, NY 10003
Studio Inquiries & Commissions
For inquiries regarding original prints, custom relief editions, or studio collaborations, feel free to reach out.