As graduation and the “real world” approached faster and faster, I jumped at the opportunity to continue my studies for an additional semester and complete my remaining credits in Italy. Previous art history courses provided me with a glimpse of the inspiration to come, yet nothing could fully prepare me for the opportunities I’ve had thus far. I immediately began experiencing the rich culture through art, history, architecture, music, theatre, dance, and fashion among other wonderful elements the culture has to offer. The amount of inspiration has completely exceeded my expectations and continues to satisfy my artistic impulse. Since this trip began, I have both consciously and subconsciously become more aware of my surroundings, observing shadows and highlights, designs and patterns, curvatures and rigidities. I have been particularly fond of and drawn to the Etruscan culture. Depictions such as owls, vines, leaves, fish, waves, organic shapes, and other ornate designs make nature’s influence on the culture apparent. Such pieces of art intrigue me by being both mentally stimulating and visually appealing.
I will soon be making some very important decisions about my future that will be essential to my continued happiness, and I find this pivotal point extremely daunting. In the previous section of this trip, using Etruscan art as my inspiration, I created a drawing that symbolized this moment in my life. However, the drawing was much less successful than I had envisioned, and compelled me to make a second attempt; this time being more intentional, dedicating more time, and being less concerned with the viewer’s perception of the end result. I’ve learned that the printmaking process is extremely demanding as it requires much precision, diligence, and carefulness. But, the muscle cramps, neck aches, and blistered fingers have made the end result that much more rewarding. I am much more pleased with my second attempt and feel that the imagery effectively displays my source of inspiration and symbolic intentions.
My linoleum plate
My multi-colored prints
Individual print
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