From 1986 to 1988, Roy Lichtenstein created a series of abstract works, often called the “Imperfects”. These prints are characterised by eccentric geometric shapes that deliberately break through or extend beyond the picture’s border. Work on RLCR 3662, Imperfect Print for B.A.M. began in late 1986, and the series was produced beginning in February 1987 at Gemini G.E.L..
The Imperfects were produced on 4-ply museum board using a combination of woodcut and screenprint techniques, with most works incorporating metalised Mylar collage elements. Lichtenstein cut the woodcut key block himself, while large flat colour areas were printed separately and built up through multiple overprintings to achieve dense, saturated tones. Silver and galvanised Mylar elements were prepared in sheets, hand-cut, and overprinted for protection and texture, and a screenprinted coating was applied to the verso of each board for stability.
Imperfect 67 5/8" x 91 1/2", 1988.Woodcut, screenprint, and collage on 3-ply Supra 100 paper.Image: 149.5 x 189.8 cm. Edition of 45; plus 14 AP, 1 RTP, 1 PPII, 3 GEL, 1 C, 5 SP.©Estate of Roy Lichtenstein.
