I've been working on a series of broadsides based on the ideas that I initially put forth in my thesis project. My thesis project was the result of months of research on the history of marriage in the United States. From that research, I started reflecting on the idea that we generally make decisions about our life based on the people that surround us. Most obvious is the fact that as children we wish to please our parents, guardians, or siblings. But when do we stop trying to please the people in our lives and begin making decisions based on our needs and wants. For some people, me in particular, I couldn't let go of the idea that I needed to please my parents/family. So the decisions I made were based on what I experienced in my upbringing. Raised as a catholic, I had certain ideas about how I should live and what was acceptable. These ideas, of course, were combined and influenced by the opinions and ideas set forth by those I loved (and still love). So what changes cause us, as individuals, to step back and make a drastic change or alter our belief system dramatically? For each of us this is different. For some, we never stop trying to please those around us, and for others, well, they may never have cared what anyone thought to begin with. 
This print is the first is a series. Right now I have two additional prints in progress. This piece is letterpress printed on a Vandercook Proofing Press using wood type and a reduction linoleum block (4 colors). Printed in April of 2015 at the Black Rock Press.

Since I began working at the Black Rock Press, I have had the opportunity to assist in the monthly printing of the Showprint with The Holland Project.

Showprint is an all ages calendar of events featuring exciting happenings (music, art, film, etc.) along with art by local artists. Each month a different artist is asked to carve a linoleum block, which will be printed in an edition of 200 on the back of the calendar. The calendars are free and are deposited around Reno in various locations (Sundance Bookstore, Bibo Coffee on Record Street, The Black Rock Press) Since my arrival and the revival of the Showprint, we have printed 6 calendars with plans to continue throughout the summer months.  

The calendar is created and designed by Denali Lowder along with Garret Caulfield with a little design help from the folks at the Black Rock Press. The artist each month changes.

I was asked to participate in The Holland Project's monthly Showprint. Showprint is an all-ages calendar produced in cooperation with the Black Rock Press. Generally, I meet with the folks at Holland at the Black Rock Press and assist in printing 200 copies. The calendar portion is laser printed and the linoleum is printed on a Vandercook. These prints/calendars are then distributed throughout the Reno area at local independent stores such as Sundance and Bibo Coffee for free. 

This month I was asked to be the featured artist. Here are a few pictures of the work in progress and the final printed version. Thanks to the folks at The Holland Project for thinking of me.