Asked to write an artist’s statement I must first ask if I am an artist. This leads even further back to "What qualifies one as an artist?" Dictionary.com defines an artist as "a person who produces works in any of the arts that are subject to aesthetic criteria." But what are these aesthetic criteria? Left without a definition, I must assume they mean visually appealing pieces. But does art have to be beautiful? I say no. Art must send a message, whether appealing or repulsive. So what qualifies someone as an artist? They must create work that means something. In this class I’ve been able to learn about a type of art I hadn’t used before and the ways it relates to the artistic world.

Printmaking is more than transferring images. It involves time consuming effort and countless wounds, whether physically inflicted from linoleum cuts or emotionally striving for the perfect project, even if it’s better with mistakes. Not only was it amazing to learn different techniques but I was able to talk to artists, curators, printmakers, and bookbinders. At Two Palms Press I saw how a professional printmaker operates, up close Chuck Close woodcuts and held a replica of Kiki Smith’s skull. Talking with the MoMA Print Gallery curator gave a deeper understanding of the show and the effort it takes. At MoMA Print Center I stood inches from originals by Andy Warhol, Picasso, and Munch. Seeing the behind-the-scenes aspect of MoMA and other studios was a unique experience that helped me grow as a person and as an artist. So by writing this statement I’ve answered the first question I posed. I may not be famous and I may not be the most talented person here, but I can still be an artist trying to send a message.