Are monotypes original paintings? YES! A monotype is a printmaking process that is an original, handmade, one-of-a-kind artwork.  It is an indirect painting method because pigment is painted on a plate, usually plexiglass, rather than directly on paper or canvas.  Paper is laid on top of the plate and run through an etching press.  The pressure of the press lifts and transfers the pigment to the paper.  Depth of layers can be achieved by repainting the plate and running the paper and plate through the press multiple times.  Producing monotypes is one of my favorite methods of printmaking because each print is a unique piece of art.