The term monotype includes the recognizable prefix, "mono" meaning "one" because of the fact that the process yields only one print, not the series of prints produced by engraving, etching, or lithography. By definition, however, it is neither a print nor a drawing, and that condition of "limbo" may be what makes it so appealing to the artists who have used the method over the past 300 years. What is the appeal to an artist of using this technique rather than some of the more complex printing methods? It is working directly with the ink to achieve a finished product that has a quality never to be matched exactly again. Rather than producing the art on paper or some other flexible material, the artist draws or paints directly on a hard printing surface, typically metal, stone, or wood. Using a press such as for etching or lithography, the artist then produces his or her print. The monotype can be used alone or in combination with other media.

Matt Phillips is a native of New York City now living in San Francisco. He has studied, taught, and exhibited his work across the United States and in France. He is included in the collections of such prestigious museums as The Art Institute of Chicago; the Phillips, Hirshhorn and National Galleries in Washington, D.C., and the Whitney and Metropolitan Museums in New York City.

This exhibit is being made possible through the generosity of Dr. and Mrs. Arthur Frank of Tyler. All of the works on display are from their private collection.

There will be a gallery talk by the artist Matt Phillips on Monday, January 12 at 6:30 p.m. at the museum. Both the gallery talk and the exhibition are free and open to the public. Museum hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. The museum is on the east side of the campus of Tyler Junior College (TJC). Visitor parking is adjacent the museum.