Marcy teaches printmaking at Multnomah Arts Center in Portland.
For more information, follow the link to MAC, then under the Main Menu go to MAC Class Schedule, then go to the Printmaking section. http://www.multnomahartscenter.org/
Artist Statement
I live in a vibrant southeast Portland neighborhood filled with early 1900's architecture, diverse foliage, and funky gardens. Dense layers of urban and natural structures are inspiring and ever-changing.
The spontaneity of the monotype process informs my approach to painting. Likewise, the structure of painting has influenced my printmaking method, and that dialog keeps the work moving forward. I begin each new series by observing and drawing the plants in my backyard garden through the constant cycle of growth, decay, and renewal. Seed pods, petals, and leaves are collected on neighborhood walks and carried back to the studio, where they provide much inspiration. My process involves creating tools such as stencils and print blocks, used to develop shape and texture while building many layers of paint or ink; and collaging various paper among the layers. The appeal of collage is finding that perfect drawing or relief print or etching that relates, in some subtle and unexpected way, to the imagery in the painting or monotype. I also draw into the surface of the work with charcoal and graphite. I like the juxtaposition of random, intuitive mark-making with the orderly repeat patterns created by stencils and printing blocks.
I am captivated by the delicate balance of urban and botanical forms and by the contrast of lush green foliage against a muted gray sky. With each new body of work, I set out to interpret and express these abundant surroundings.
