It’s creatively stimulating to be among a dedicated group of artists promoting the wonders of the transferred image. I have been a member of the Printmakers’ Network of Southern New England since 1993 and thoroughly enjoy getting together with other printmakers to exhibit, share expertise and participate in group projects. When you meet another printmaker, talk almost always turns to techniques and materials; it’s like belonging to a secret society with unique terminology and processes.

I’m fascinated by all printmaking methods and love to see where and how other printmakers work; along with their finished products. There's an instantaneous collegiality among printmakers and those that I’ve met have been enthusiastic about what they do and generous with their knowledge and insights. I think the common bond is that we’re all caught up in the process of our given medium and recognize that spark of craftsmanship in other printmakers as well.

As I explore the possibilities of the print medium, my art needs to work on three different but related levels: the practical level (Can it be done?), the aesthetic level (How does it look?), and finally, the intellectual level (Does it convey the right meaning?) As I seek elegant solutions to creative problems, I intuitively know when a piece feels right because all three areas are in balance. The opportunities are unlimited and at the end of a printing session it’s always magical to find out what lies beneath the blankets.

Melody Knight Leary