I Only Have Eyes For You (Ghost)

This unique work is created by Amy Wiggin using a distinctive monotype process. The process begins with the artist rolling out a layer of paint onto the print bed before laying down a sheet of paper. She then proceeds to draw with pencil onto the reverse of the sheet. The act of drawing puts pressure onto the paint, forcing it aside, which results in a negative line on the paper. Once it is removed, a mirror image of the drawing is revealed in paint. Another sheet of paper is immediately laid on top of the wet print bed and rolled to pick up the remaining paint which results in a second version, known as a ghost. The artist works quickly and intuitively using this monotype process but once the paint is dry, works into the prints with mixed media including paint and oil pastel to create two unique works. The positive image is available here. 

This piece in Wiggin's signature bright hues features the figure of a man gazing longingly with the words ‘I only have eyes for you’ emblazoned in the starry night sky behind him. He is characterised by blue eyelashes and red lips and cheeks, whilst also having a very masculine presenting beard and strong features. By doing this Wiggin hopes to challenge traditional masculine stereotypes, choosing the traditionally ‘feminine‘ colour of pink and adorning him with decorative stars. For her, he represents a gentle masculinity.