15 Dec 2010

Final Project – Artist's Statement

For the final assignment of the semester I made greeting cards. I have a passion for simple cards that are generic enough to be used for multiple occasions. One element that I wanted to incorporate from the start was the aesthetic of mixed media. I started by printing the first letter of each phrase on cardstock with woodtype and the letterpress. I chose three different phrases, three different card sizes for each phrase, and three different colors for printing. I followed by screen-printing the remainder of each phrase with black ink.  My next step was to add imagery. For this, I used watercolors as a base and overprinted with a stamp print. The final step in my process was to add a touch of color and delicacy. I used diecut paper to trim the edges and sides of the cards.

I chose to use a monotone approach for the colors. I wanted the series to be cohesive but also have each element be unique and have individual qualities. The mixed media approach can be hard to tie together but I really like the way that each addition I made compliments the others. Using the letterpress is always an experiment but I like the quality of the print and the character of the woodtype in particular. While there are minor blemishes and smears, I think it adds to the handmade look of the cards. I can’t wait to use them this holiday season.

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