Where the visual artist meets the writer

A collaboration between creatives

To my friend,

I’m approaching the completion of a new body of work centered around the idea of water. I knew this would be the subject matter I’d explore when I returned to my printmaking practice at the start of the year. Throughout my life, I’ve had so many intimate experiences with the water, and it’s greatly set the foundation for who I am—who I’ve become.

Each piece in this collection is the same size—3 inches by 3 inches. Oil-based printmaking ink on cotton paper. They’re reminiscent of the water and hold its impression. They capture its beauty and also its tenacity. Its presence and its spirit.

When I begin moving toward a new concept, a new idea, in my work, the end isn't always crystal clear. My practice is often a conversation. A back and forth that unfolds as I respond to how I process new information. This comes from research, reading, writing, and conversations—what I am noticing and how I am present in what I notice.

Printmaking is like that. I have to stay buoyant. Flexible with what the process dictates. Guiding the approach and also letting the approach guide me.

As I was making, I collected different themes to help inform my ideas. I found them in composition, movement, memory, identity, and story. Similar sizes, dramatic brush strokes, similar feelings. But I also noticed I wasn’t alone in my affinity for the water. People began sharing their stories, their themes, with me, too.

As I read more and more about other people’s experiences, I felt moved. I was compelled by the stories shared with me. Encouraged to bring yet another layer into this work and into my practice. It was a layer I didn't anticipate from the start. But a layer that I felt this work couldn't live without.

So, I decided to collaborate with 7 (very talented) writers to invite their personal themes into the work. To celebrate not just my connection to the water but also our collective connection to the water.

I am not sure if I was prepared for the words that they would share with me. What my monotypes evoked in them. Each story, each word. They are all intimate, powerful, and incredibly reflective. They make my work come alive in new ways.

I’ll be sharing one new piece and its story with you every other day over the next two weeks beginning on Tuesday, September 19. Each day a new monotype is shared it will be available on my website for purchase. The remaining pieces in this collection will be available at the beginning of October—and two were accepted and will be included in a local juried show (yay!).

I hope you’ll join me in celebrating these 7 pieces and the beautiful stories that unfolded. If you have more stories about the water, I’ll join you below in the comments.

Warmly,

Lauren

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Currently reading: You Could Make This Place Beautiful: A Memoir

Currently researching: Podcasts to be a guest on

Currently talking about: Creative magic