About
Comejen Prints was created to pay tribute to Taino culture and Dominican folklore. Most of the designs come from research of Taino artifacts and objects native to Dominican culture. The name, “comején” is inspired by the Taino word “comején” meaning termite. Similar to the way termites nest in & feed on wood, the artist, César Peña uses his tools to carve away the wooden blocks where each image is produced.
These simple, yet bold prints start with a hand drawn reference image, and then each design is transferred to a woodblock or Linoleum block. Next, using various carving tools and techniques, the block is carved, hand inked and hand printed using relief printing methods. These limited edition prints invite the viewer to reflect on a nostalgic yet fresh experience. The bold and sharp lines strike a satisfying contrast that is not only pleasing to the eye, but the refined imagery also makes for a clean aesthetic to breathe life into any space—rustic, modern, or contemporary. Each final image is an original in its own right—no two are the same.
Through his artwork, the artist, César Peña, hopes to bring you on his journey and connect you to the rich and diverse Dominican culture that inspires his curiosity.
Linocut of a Taino Cohoba inhaler.
RELIEF PRINTING
is a printing method where a printing block, plate or matrix that has had ink applied to its surface, but not to any recessed areas, is brought into contact with paper. The areas of the printing plate with ink will leave ink on the paper, whereas the recessed areas of the printing plate will leave the paper ink-free. A printing press may not be needed, as the back of the paper can be rubbed or pressed by hand with a simple tool such as a brayer or roller.
In many historical processes, the matrix in relief printing is created by starting with a flat original surface and then removing (e.g., by carving) away areas intended to print white. The remaining areas of the original surface receive the ink. The relief family of techniques includes woodcut and linocut.
PRINTING PROCESS
Each print is made from a block. The block was hand-carved from wood or linoleum.
The prints are hand-burnished with a wooden spoon and print using a relief printing method.
Entire process is done by the artist in his small home-based studio.
Papers and inks used are of great quality to assure the longevity of the prints.
Handmade works of art on paper are fragile, but can easily be protected from any kind of damage with a little bit of knowledge and effort. Proper care of the art prints is required to keep it safe and prolong its life. please read PRINT CARE for ways to take care of your prints.
LIMITED EDITION
All prints are limited edition, this means that the value and scarcity of these prints will remain steady. You will have one of only few prints in existence of this original artwork. Each print is numbered accordingly. (Editions can range from 10-20 prints).
Thanks for visiting ComejenPrints. As a token of appreciation, here is a free phone screensaver of the “Taino body stamp” print.
