The late Indian-American printmaker Krishna Reddy was not just an artist but a visionary educator who revolutionized the world of printmaking. His innovative technique of viscosity printing, also known as mixed color intaglio, transformed the way artists use color in their prints. Reddy believed that the joy of creation should be shared, inspiring others to explore new possibilities in the creative process.
Born in India, Reddy’s early education at the Rishi Valley School and later at Visva-Bharati shaped his artistic philosophies. His journey led him to Paris, where he joined Atelier 17, a renowned printmaking studio known for fostering collaboration and experimentation among artists. It was here that Reddy developed his groundbreaking viscosity technique, which involved layering colored inks of different viscosities on a single plate to create vibrant multicolored images in one pass through the press.
Upon meeting Robert Blackburn in New York in the 1960s, Reddy found a kindred spirit in printmaking and teaching. Blackburn’s Printmaking Workshop became a hub for artists of color, where Reddy taught workshops on viscosity printing for over 30 years. His influence extended beyond technique, instilling in his students a sense of collaboration, experimentation, and a deep understanding of color and form.
One of Reddy’s notable students, Michael Kelly Williams, collaborated with fellow artist Helio Salcedo to create the print “West Indian Day Parade,” using a combination of engraving and viscosity techniques to capture a celebratory scene. Other artists like Joyce Wellman and Devraj Dakoji also found inspiration in Reddy’s teachings, exploring the possibilities of color and texture in their prints.
Reddy’s impact on the world of printmaking continues to be felt today, with many of his students becoming educators themselves and passing on his legacy of creativity and collaboration. His philosophy of lifelong learning and humility in the face of artistry is evident in the stories shared by his students, who remember him not just as a teacher but as a fellow explorer in the world of creativity.
