Julie Cowan
In the past, I have focused on two interests: portraiture and architecture. My most recent work, however, is about nature.
I had been taking photos of natural subjects and printing them expecting to exhibit them as a group. When we had to stay at home I fortunately had a stack of prints to color and complete. As I started to add color, I found myself working with intense hues and deep blacks, perhaps to punctuate the flow of time, as each day blends with the next.
With architectural subjects, I investigate the idea of place and how spaces make us feel either embraced or alienated. Using architectural themes, I select photographic imagery and then digitally alter the photos to create greater contrasts and stronger line. Often I will layer various photographic elements to create new spaces.
My paper lithography technique has layers of printmaking and drawing applications so that each piece is a monoprint. First, I shoot the photographic image. Then, once digitally altered, I print the image using a paper transfer process with oil-based ink. I then layer the work using a monotype process to create unique works as detail on the prints are hand-colored with pencil or watercolor.
The beauty of imperfection is reflected in an expressive face or an architectural space that is unfinished or distorted, and the irregularities of a printed work relate these subjects. This imperfection creates an empathy for where we are and who we are uniting us together in grace.
