Anne E.G. Nydam, Printmaking

Artist Statement

As both an artist and a writer I think of myself as a storyteller, but I love the different ways a story can be told. The challenge I see in block printing is neither to reproduce an object or scene with accurate realism, nor to come up with some new abstract vision. Rather, the challenge is to distill an image to its basics: there is only black or white, ink or no ink. Opposed to the simplicity of the images themselves, I enjoy the surprise inherent in printmaking. Even though I plan the design, I never know what it will look like after carving and inking. Accidents of carving are often frustrating, but sometimes give the print that mark of the hand which makes it more interesting. Above all, I make art because I enjoy it. I see my art as a way to celebrate life and express my joy in creation, both natural and human.

Recent Awards, Honors, Newsworthy Activities

- teaching printmaking classes at Needham Summer Explorations (July, for children) and North Hill (November, for older adults)
- received Bronze Medal at the Wishing Shelf Independent Book Awards for "The Extraordinary Book of Doors" which I wrote and illustrated