Artist Statement

Nature, the deconstruction of it, and the reconstruction through art, has been the main source of my imagery lately. My recent investigation of rocks as subject matter has stemmed from a simple pile of polished rocks haphazardly dumped onto my desk. In spending time handling, pondering, and simply looking at these simple objects, my understanding of abstract issues of composition, color, and shape has morphed and expanded. Not only do the rock shapes, textures, and colors now appear in my work, but the way I approach making art, specifically making a print, has been transformed as well. In the earth, the careful, slow buildup of sediment into a beautifully unique stone is similar to the process of printmaking. Making a print takes time, consideration, and layering. In my work, the most beautiful images frequently happen accidentally or organically, but the printmaking processes I use —processes such as etching, collograph, and even monotype — impose the issue of time onto any image. Like a stunning stone, a handsome print is the result of long hours of labor, slow and deliberate consideration, and multiple layers of imagery.

Biography

One of WPG's emerging members, Heather is currently studying printmaking at the Unversity of Pennsylvania. Her work has been exhibited throughout the region, including WPG's 2011 National Small Works Exhibition. Her work is in the collection of the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts as well as private collections.