about
artist's statement
Working in the field of non-toxic printmaking allows me to combine the centuries old process of intaglio printmaking with the modern world of digital imaging
Working in the field of non-toxic printmaking allows me to combine the centuries old process of intaglio printmaking with the modern world of digital imaging and the “computer darkroom.” In gathering images for my work, I am attracted to building fronts, window displays, people, items whose time has passed, and the occasional plant or flower. The process of collecting images of what I observe in my surroundings as I travel or take time during my day to notice those things right at hand are what inspires much of my art. Just as in life where our tasks and busy schedules blind us to details of what is going on around us, the colors and textures of what we see can mask the simple yet beautiful details of our world. Thus as we take our visual world for granted, we may only have a sense of the activity unfolding and miss any significance that such activity represents. This casual acceptance of what is around us may seem comforting, but at what price in the long term? As an artist I hope that the works presented challenge the viewer to realize the complexities of our environment and to stop, absorb, and be connected to that which is part of us.
Over the years my work has diversified to not only including a photogravure feel to it but to one that has many of the qualities of a woodcut or a line etching. My artistic explorations began with a love of black and white photography which in turn influenced me to initially use only one color of ink, often black. However, over time a significant body of my work has introduced more than one color. Additionally, developing prints with an abstract impression has led to me develop and continue to add to a series of prints that utilize multiple images, inviting the viewer to explore the details imbedded in the art.
As a printmaker living in the natural splendor of the Adirondacks I am reminded daily of the need to preserve the beauty of our surroundings and environment. By using a non-toxic process and eco-friendly inks in my art, I can continue to work in the field of etching/printmaking without utilizing the environmentally damaging chemicals traditionally associated with this classic form of art.
Over the years my work has diversified to not only including a photogravure feel to it but to one that has many of the qualities of a woodcut or a line etching. My artistic explorations began with a love of black and white photography which in turn influenced me to initially use only one color of ink, often black. However, over time a significant body of my work has introduced more than one color. Additionally, developing prints with an abstract impression has led to me develop and continue to add to a series of prints that utilize multiple images, inviting the viewer to explore the details imbedded in the art.
As a printmaker living in the natural splendor of the Adirondacks I am reminded daily of the need to preserve the beauty of our surroundings and environment. By using a non-toxic process and eco-friendly inks in my art, I can continue to work in the field of etching/printmaking without utilizing the environmentally damaging chemicals traditionally associated with this classic form of art.
