I was raised in an environment that supported and encouraged the creative process.
The Art:
I have discovered through the years that I don’t work like many artist do. I don’t have an exact style or medium that defines me. I work in large bodies of work that usually take years to explore. These large bodies are many times divided into series within the body. Most of these bodies of work are driven by line and shape trying to express ideas and stories through mark making, color, shape and texture.
Several times it has been a true calling from within myself... sounds corny but it’s true. This is the work that can’t be denied. Or I find something that intrigues me, something I want to explore, and then I research and pursue that avenue until I have exhausted my curiosity and then I move on. The medium I use is the one that solves the problem presented before me.
In my head I compare it to a writer who writes novels. The idea.. the reserch.. the execution.. the editing… the chapters... the final execution and the presentation of the finished pieces. Once this is done, onto the next. Almost always, within the present body of work I stumble on the next path. Almost...
I have also discovered that the quickest way to become dissatisfied with my work is to create art for people I do not know. I have to trust my gut and follow my own lead and my own truth. If I make art with the thought of what others might like, or buy, I’ve sold myself out. I will have left none of myself behind when I’m gone if I’ve spent my time trying to please others and by guessing what strangers might want.
During the pandemic I ventured into the process of linocut reduction. Linocut reduction is a relief printmaking method where the artist carves a reverse image into a linoleum block, inks it, and prints it on paper. Layers are carved and printed sequentially in different colors, with each layer eliminating parts of the previous one. Because earlier layers cannot be changed once removed, the method is often referred to as “suicide printing.”
In 2023 I began noticing intriguing visual elements in the cleanup process and started creating mixed media works from the leftover paper and fragments generated during the reduction process.
The design, planning, and execution of linocut reduction is an intricate and deliberate process. Working with its byproducts gives me a chance to create from a more intuitive, spontaneous place.
Bio
Education and Professional Experience
1978-82 University of South Carolina: BA in Fine Art
1994 Center for Creative Imaging, Camden, Maine
2000, 2003, 2007, 2012 Penland School of Crafts Studied with Pinkney Herbert and Holly Roberts
2013, 2014 Winter Resident Independent Study Penland School of Crafts
Anderson Ranch 2005 Studied with Holly Roberts, 2015 Studied with Roberto Juarez
1982-present Professional Graphic Designer in advertising and marketing
1989-present Creative Director of Brownell McIntosh Graphic Design, Inc.
2007 - 2012 Board Member - SC Governor’s School for the Arts Foundation; Communications and Marketing Chair
2010 - 2016 Resident Artist of Vista Studios/Gallery 80808
2016 - 2022 Operated Northlight Studio in Camden, SC
2018 - present Board Member, Arts Center of Kershaw County
2015 Columbia Advisory Board Member - SC Governor’s School for the Arts Foundation
2022 - present Established Laurie McIntosh Art in Camden SC