Two block lino print on 300gsm Somerset
28cm x 28cm Framed
The work, titled Organic Grid, blends the precision of graphic design and typography with the playful nature of commercial illustration—both central to my creative process. The piece is shaped by bold, solid shapes, strong forms, pattern, texture, and a sense of energy that runs through much of my work.
It was created as a two-block lino print on 300gsm Somerset white textured paper, using non-toxic Cranfield Colours inks. The print is intentionally under-inked to reveal the carved surface and the texture of the paper, giving the piece subtle shifts in tone and feel.
The tomatoes in Organic Grid are more than just a graphic element. They mark a seasonal shift—from the cooler months into summer’s abundance—and carry personal meaning tied to my Italian background, where making tomato sauce was a yearly ritual. They evoke heritage, tradition, family, and the comfort of shared meals.
By combining these organic forms with subtle typographic elements, the artwork strikes a balance between the structured and the natural. It’s an example of how traditional printmaking can sit alongside contemporary visual language.
Organic Grid - Tonia Composto
Tonia Composto is a commercial illustrator and graphic designer with a background in traditional printmaking. She graduated from the North Adelaide School of Art, where she majored in linocut and lithography. Her early training continues to influence the textures and compositions in her work today.
Tonia combines her skills in illustration and design to produce clear, engaging visuals. She enjoys collaborating with clients and creative teams to bring ideas to life.
Her style often features bold shapes, balanced layouts, and a limited colour palette, reflecting her printmaking roots. Tonia values visual storytelling and continues to build her career as a versatile illustrator, designer, and printmaker.