Combining Both Passions, Rebirth of a Drawing

As a printmaker, I find one of the best ways to stay inspired (or at least come up with a concept) is to take an existing drawing of mine and adapt it into print form. This doesn't always happen, but it's a good way to start:

© Phoenix by Abigail Davidson; Mediums: Color pencil, marker, ink pen; Size: 8x10 inches

© Phoenix Linocut by Abigail Davidson

Of course, each medium has its benefits and limitations. Linocuts are stronger when there is enough contrast between the line-work and the background. If the background were too busy, it would compete with the line-work. If the background had the same value and/or color of the main subject, then the same problem would occur. So, while cross-hatching is a great technique for an illustrative background, it would be too busy for a linocut such as this one. Sometimes (okay, a lot of the time), it takes trial and error to find the right compromise, but it's worth it.

What methods do you like to use when balancing a background and subject together? Let me know!