Thursday, April 19, 2007

Getting Started

Meet Mississippi Charles Bevel. I had the chance to meet him a few months ago when he was visiting my town. A super-talented musician, and a sweet soul to boot. One gray and rainy afternoon I looked up from my dreary desk to see him walking by my window wearing his signature bowler cap adorned with a feather and this humongous rainbow umbrella. It was such a cheerful scene, I knew I had to make a drawing. I made a quick sketch, reworked it a few times in my sketchbook and then began laying it out in trusty Illustrator. I sent a digital print to Mississippi, but I wanted more!

I've been looking for an excuse to purchase some new silkscreen supplies, and this seems to be the perfect reason. Back in my art school days I was addicted to screen printing. I loved mixing the pudding-thick colors, planning out separations and watching the ink seep into the paper. I even stole my lucky squeegee (named Peterson) from the supply cabinet in the studio before I graduated. As time went by my screen printing obsession was always in the back of my mind but jobs, computers, and small spaces got in the way. I'm in a much bigger space now, and I have a lot more time on my hands. So, taking a cue from The Police, Peterson is ready to come out of his retirement and rock the screen once again. I may document the process and post it here.

And, as if I needed even another reason to get going it is also time for the Print Zero Studios Print Exchange. What started out as a small local exchange organized by a former classmate of mine has now grown to include many national and international artists. The last exchange included something like 200+ participants. All you have to do is make a wee edition of 15 prints, and you get 15 back from all around the world. A pretty good deal if you ask me. If you are a printmaker or even curious about getting started in printmaking and need a little extra motivation, I'd strongly suggest looking into this!

Printmakers unite!

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

That's an awesome illustration! I can't wait to see what you make for the print exchange.

-Ben ;)

Molly said...

FANTASTIC!

I just knew your blogging days were around the corner. I love Mississippi Charles and I LOVE hearing about silkscreening. I have fond memories of your silkscreening escapades with Peterson.

I am looking forward to the boundless creative energy of Miss J. I know it well and miss it!

onward you inspirational babe!
miss m

Jenny said...

Ahhh, memories of Peterson, and the smell of those inks! I love Mississippi and can't wait to see what you come up with next!

Librarian Girl said...

Another blog superstar is BORN! I can feel it!

LMMCNAMARA said...

Being the father of this creative Miss J. makes me so proud I could pop.
Such creativity is amazing.
Now that she's off duty, I'm a little nervous, as all of you should be.
You are an inspiration Julia.
Love Ya, DA