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Advisor: Lorena Salcedo-Watson
When I first tried printmaking, I discovered it was an art I very much enjoy. I particularly appreciate and admire the style of woodblock printing. When taking on this independent study, for me it was a very rewarding and therapeutic learning process. As I moved forward through the semester I noticed an improvement in b0th my woodcutting and printing skills. I learned how to better control the tools to achieve a more accurate and satisfying result. Experiencing a setback during the process, due to poor quality wood I received from an online order, also turned out to be a learning experience, and I am now more aware of what I need to look for when making future purchases. The poor quality wood resulted in not only cutting problems, but disappointing prints as well.
I found the one-on-one mentoring process to be particularly beneficial. I was able to receive valuable advice and feedback from my professor as well as motivation and encouragement. It was suggested that I research different well-known printmakers and study their styles. In doing so I was able to develop my own artistic style, and creativity, and improve my skill set. I was inspired to experiment with different techniques and I discovered interesting ways to use my tools, such as using the small V-gauge to create falling snow, and wind gusts. I discovered different printing methods as well, and eventually decided I was comfortable and satisfied with printing each block separately and piecing them together like a puzzle.
The idea and feeling behind my project was an important process for me emotionally, and I’m very glad that through the mentoring process I was encouraged to build this project into what it is. Originally, my idea was to print several different smaller images of self-portraits, emulating different physical looks as well as my personality. However, I became emotionally attached to this one piece after my first block, and both the professor and I decided it would be beneficial to build it into something bigger. So I focused on creating this large piece instead of several smaller pieces, and I am happy I did. Now I have a solid project that I put a lot of time and effort into, that I can be proud of.
This piece was created from eight separate woodblocks, printed on masa paper and pieced together. With the two figures mirroring one another, they are showing a struggling uphill battle both directions. This represents the mental and physical battles I have endured over the years, and the constant struggle of everything seeming to be an uphill battle, with the challenges rising. The center is the starting point. The only two choices are right or left, which leaves you with a “choose your poison” scenario. The center is flat, showing a temporary calm before the inevitable climb. As the figure climbs in the opposite directions we can see the scene change. There are different obstacles to overcome and choices to be made. If she goes back down, she is only back where she started. The composition of the entire piece resembles a staircase going upward on either side. However, when viewed head-on, it also seems to resemble wings opening, showing triumph and power. The figure in this piece does not share this view. With this, I give the viewer the perception of my higher self, watching from above, seeing what I, in this Earthly body, cannot yet see. It is both hopelessness and hope. If you keep climbing, you can eventually reach the top and spread your wings. When that time will come, is uncertain.