Make it stand out.
As a printmaker I have been able to use my medium to explore new ways to express my personal experiences. Unlike painting I am able to produce larger runs of images, allowing my work to be collected and enjoyed by more people. Im influenced by community and a variety of social issues, and I strive to find ways to connect my art with my family and home life.
My personal work focuses heavily on my own struggles with mental illness, and self destructive behavior. I use repetitive imagery in my work as a direct reflection of issues that I have, and will continue to have to struggle with; as well as the stigma of seeking professional care and high propensity for self medication. Working in multiples has allowed me the freedom to address the repetitive nature of mental illness, the ebbs and flows of self care, and occurrence and eventual overcoming of “mistakes”.
put it in ink
I used to be an artist. But when i found printmaking 20 years ago that all fell away. I found printmaking and I found myself. I was a PRINTMAKER.
I work in all aspects of printmaking but primarily with intaglio styles at the moment. Working as a printmaker allows me the freedom to work in multiples, to accept my mistakes and get hands on. I’m currently working on a series of larger monotype prints that focus on the duality of my life, mixing my artistic practice with my deep desire to find a way to connect to my children and partner, as well as other aspects of our village that have inpired me.
I hope to move into teaching in the California Community College system after completing my MFA in printmaking. I started my education in the community college system, found my passion, and have a real soft spot in my heart for all community colleges do for alternative, older and returning students.