platdruk

Platdruk refers to a subgenre of the movementknown as Art Brut, which originated in Switzerland in the 20th century. The term is derived from the French word for "plates print," as this subgenre focuses on works created through relief printing.

Participants in the Platdruk movement use the same techniques as professional artists, but often with a non-traditional approach. The use of household objects, such as wooden blocks, crayons, and stencils, allows individuals within this movement to create artwork that is self-expressive and non-conforming.

Platdruk emerged as a part of the broader movement of Outsider art, which includes all individuals beyond the world of conventional art institutions. This distinction allows individuals involved with Platdruk to forge their own unique style, free from the normal expectations of the art world.

A defining aspect of Platdruk is the balance between cultural expression and the raw, unpolished material of the prints. The result yields simple, yet vibrant patterns and images often reflecting a deep connection to nature, folklore, and the individual's own perspective. By contrast, conventional forms of art may adhere to traditional techniques, making the Platdruk subgenre a global phenomenon.

Some theories suggest that the Platdruk movement became a support mechanism for mentally or physically marginalized individuals to express themselves across a broad spectrum of creativity.