Artist StatementOver the past fifteen years I have learned a great deal about the art of lino-cut reduction printmaking. I love the process, the surprises that come with the overlay of many colors, and the depth that is possible in some of the images that I choose to print. I have found that my prints get a little more complicated each year, and consequently take longer to complete.
When I start to put together a new print I have a mental image of what I want to achieve, but I also try to let the progression of cuts and inkings determine each new step. In the past few years we have taken several road trips to eastern Oregon and another down the coast through the redwoods. My new prints were inspired by photos I took on those drives. Wherever we go, I look for possible image ideas and take a lot photos to use in working up new print compositions. After I select an image to use I draw the composition on paper before transferring the drawing to the linoleum block using carbon paper and tracing on the original drawing. The drawing on the block is then finalized with indelible ink to keep the image intact during the process of multiple inkings and cleanings. I usually begin an edition with fifteen prints, and a print may have fourteen to twenty four different colors. So to finish an edition of prints may require 210 to 360 separate inking and printing steps. My husband mats and frames all of my prints, and I am constantly thankful for the time and encouragement that is given me to continue to work in this medium. |