Jean Ramsey, Prints and Drawings

The work Jean Ramsey is showing at Highgate Gallery results from an interest in the relationship
between the drawn and the printed image. It follows on from her studies in photography that
culminated in an exhibition of gum-bichromate prints. This early process utilises the sun to develop
a prepared light-sensitive emulsion that when applied to paper with a pronounced surface or
‘tooth’ can result in a painterly quality.
Jean’s degree in Fine Art (sculpture) from King’s College, Newcastle, then the University of Durham,
included a Hatton Scholarship year.  She acknowledges the initial influence of an inspired teacher
in north London, Nommie Durell, whose mantra ‘no day without a line’ continues to resonate with her.
The three-dimensional disciplines of sculpture and her experience in set design established form and structure
as crucial elements in her work and have become the foundation for her current exploration in two-dimensions.
Using traditional subject matter, principally self-portraiture and studies of people she knows well, every
work begins with a drawing.
“Having worked in collaboration with others over the years, as a practitioner and as a teacher, this exhibition
is the result of a not altogether conscious decision to revert to personal discovery through drawing
(seeing) and manipulating (printing)”.
The earlier prints are mainly soft-ground etchings and mezzotints, the later work frequently becoming
monoprints by the combination of inscribing by etching and drawing directly into the inked plate.
There are some preliminary studies and proof prints from the most current work on display in which the
visual development of the idea can be traced. Man Ray, known principally for his photography, describes
painting as “.…an adventure in which some great force might suddenly change the whole aspect of
things….”, echoed by Julian Trevelyan’s ….”collaboration with the god of chance….”, also a reference to painting.
Jean Ramsey’s exhibition of prints suggest the transformation that takes place, from close examination of the
subject, the analysis, via the rigour and fluidity of the printing process that can lead to unforeseen results.
Some earlier gum-bichromate photographic prints, although not hung, are available to view in a portfolio
and the artist will be in attendance throughout the exhibition’s run to discuss her work.

Highgate Gallery opening times: Weds – Fri: 13.00 – 17.00, Sat: 11.00 – 16.00, Sun: 11.00 – 17.00