Piece description from the artist
This piece was created through a handmade printmaking process called “Monotype Printing” which is more like a painting process, but there are so many different techniques that can be used to create a composition when using ink through the press. Because I still am a photographer at heart, I collaged my photographs (which I have converted to black and white objects) in with the strokes of ink. I allowed myself to play with the images and the color, not plan the composition as much, and just see what comes out. I was primarily inspired by the photos I took mostly from my frequent walks and exploring in the city. I often find fun messages and unique cars, signs, and buildings and I have a wonderful collection of inspiring images to play with. It is exciting to see what comes together compositionally that often gives a sense of dream-like nostalgia, and a sense of place or a moment in time, even with just a few elements put together…I like to think of them as Urban Dreams trying to speak to us in between the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Beth Kerschen is a multi-disciplinary artist using photomontage to create cityscapes that reflect on community, culture, and urban life. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Colorado College in Colorado Springs, as one of the first students to exhibit digitally created art. Beth moved to Boston, MA to work for Polaroid then worked for ten years as a graphic designer with several creative firms in Boston, eventually moving to Portland, Oregon in 2008. Since that time, Kerschen has committed her life to capturing vast urban landscapes into one tangible image. She uses her photography, design, and illustration skills to turn urban landscapes into fantastical images filled with meaning and nostalgia. Her art explores and reflects on connections held by the landmarks, buildings, signage, graffiti, people, and events that are reflected in urban life and urban culture. She was awarded a Professional Development Grant from RACC (‘15) and a public art installation commission at the Portland International Airport (‘16). Her work has been held in a number of corporate and city collections, including two terms in the Mayor of Portland’s office. She has done a number of installation pieces for numerous residential buildings bolstering local identity. Clients include JupiterNEXT Hotel, the City of The Dalles, Heathman Hotel, Downtown Oregon City Assoc., Port of Portland, IFC (Portlandia t.v. series), REACH Community Development, Weird Portland United, and Facebook.
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