Debra Olin, Somerville, Mass. :: Printmaker

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I am a printmaker, combining monoprint, drypoint, stencils and collage to make both two and three dimensional works on and with paper and fabric. Elements are arranged on an inked plexi glass plate and run through a press. During the art making process there are three components that I try to balance and connect; the aesthetic, the technical and the conceptual. In addition to these elements there is a collaboration with the press. There is always an element of surprise with the monoprint process, due to its indirect nature. I am most intrigued with texture and layering imagery to reveal or obscure certain areas of the composition.

I am interested in making connections between disparate cultures. Using the Yiddish language, literature, and folklore as a springboard, I have found commonalities between Eastern European Jews, Ancient Egyptians and Chinese Healers. From the first handprints, to alphabet and language, ideas about death and higher powers, healing the body, and games and rituals, civilizations that had no communication with each other, came up with similar explorations and solutions to life’s challenges.

My most recent work, "Cosmic Inclusion" is an installation consisting of thirty-two 39"h x 20"w monoprints (with collage, drypoint, stitching), attached to hinged panels 92" high by 24’ long, although by changing the configuration the dimensions can vary. The idea of this format is to give the impression of a giant accordion book. I am using the figure as a conduit, with energy passing through from heaven to earth and threading through from culture to culture. The figure, an adaptation from the acupuncture chart, is used as a universal symbol of (wo)mankind.

I use clothing as a metaphor for the body. A slip represents vulnerability while a coat signifies shelter. This work deals with healing: healing the world and healing the body. "The Crossroads" and "The Balance" are from my "Rock, Paper, Scissors Series". Since adult attempts toward peace aren’t working, this children’s game for resolving conflicts seemed like a possible alternative. "Cupping #1", "Cupping #3", and "X-ray" have to do with healing the body. In these prints, I am also concerned with making connections between disparate cultures; in this case, the Chinese and Eastern European Jews. Who knew?

Birds have captivated our imagination since the beginning of time. Depicted in petroglyphs, on ancient coins, and in hieroglyphics, they have woven their magic into the folklore and superstitions of every culture.

The birds in "Glikl 1 & 2" refer to a Yiddish poem found in the writings of Glikl of Hamlen. This poem was translated by Michael Wex and written into a song by Adrienne Cooper. "Crane Dance" and "Stork and Crane" connects to our story telling/ nursery rhyming relationship with birds.