Printmaking is an extremely complex, time-intensive, and process-driven artistic medium. The complexities of thinking about your subject matter in reverse, carving the image into wood, or etching the image into copper is a process that has numerous variables that can affect the outcome of the entire work. Being flexible and adapting to the continual challenges inherent within the medium is what makes me a printmaker.
My printmaking style is very graphic in appearance. The subject matter captured within my work is deeply rooted in places, people, objects, and memories that hold a deep personal significance. The most recurring subject matter in my work is the inherent beauty of nature. Nature, specifically trees, is a very captivating and inspiring subject matter. The usage of linework is very important to me and holds a great amount of value when I am working; this is integral to my work as an intaglio printmaker and woodcut printmaker. I find that my interest in complex linework is directly tied to my fascination with creating variations in value using just black ink. I enjoy using highly detailed, layered, and overlapping lines to create the illusion of different grey tones. The wide variety of textures and values that can be achieved using this technique intrigues and inspires both me and my work.
My goal as an artist is to represent who I am through my artwork. Whether that is being weird and quirky, sentimental, a nature lover, someone obsessed with trees, or someone who is trying to convey the struggles they are dealing with. Whatever I create has to mean something to me and be a part of who I am or who I am. My work is always based on my personal experiences and interests. I need to be deeply connected to what I am making for it to turn out how I envision it. Printmaking is the way I can achieve this goal.