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.

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.

In July, my partner and I will travel 2800 miles across the country to Reno, Nevada where I will be the next Nell J. Redfield Fellow at the Black Rock Press, University of Nevada. When I applied for the fellowship, I really didn't think that I would be the lucky one. Fellowships are always so competitive, and there are so few in Book Arts. I feel honored and blessed to be granted this opportunity. 

2800 miles is a long way from the Corcoran, and even longer from my hometown in Pennsylvania. My family had mixed reactions to the announcement, as I expected. My parents and siblings were happy for me, but also a bit saddened by the amount of distance that will be between us. After the initial shock wore off, I got the expected calls proclaiming that they will have to come visit, and they are excited to explore the area. 

I have had little opportunity to visit the west coast myself. Having visited as a teenager, I don't remember much, except that I was trapped in a house with relatives (who of course I love dearly, but what the heck—Yosemite was a mere three hours away!!!). I got a glimpse of the Redwoods and Monterey Bay, but I don't recall much else. I can hear Lake Tahoe, the Grand Canyon, and the California coast calling us! Oh the sights we will see! 

Our adventure will start with our move. We are planning to take a few days to see some of the country as we drive to the other side. I am hoping we will be able to visit some friends en route too. I am not so good with the driving aspect (I haven't driven too much since we relocated to DC—ugh, the traffic here is treacherous!), but I will have to do my share since it will take us a few days. Our little Min Pin will be joining us too. Thankfully, she loves a car ride and always adjusts well.