My monotypes are about the process of layering color, shapes and lines to form images that have many levels of expression. I have evolved from photography, to paint to printmaking. I start the monotypes by placing found objects or stencils on the inked gelatin plate and then using hand pressure to transfer the image to the paper. Then, I add photographic images, text or other stamped marks. Sometimes, I collage with the sewing machine.
I sew in overlapping curvilinear patterns and then tear off the excess paper. The papers that I sew on are often old prints, music, dictionary terms, sewing patterns and other found papers. I work back and forth with different techniques to bring the print to some kind of balance, harmony or understanding.
My surroundings are my inspiration, the backyard, the city street, my dog, and the birds at the feeder. My internal struggles seem to show up a lot too. The battle between fear and faith is always present. As I share my work with more people, find that the sewing intrigues them and the multitude of layers keeps them coming back to the print.
May 2008
