Isabel Chen's Linoleum Printmaking

Artist Isabel Chen is practicing linocut printmaking for her senior project. This was a recent interview with her about her project.

Isabel, what is your project?

I am making linocut prints based off books I have read in English.

What inspired you to do this project?

I have always been inspired by the posters that are up in the English hallway and English classrooms so I wanted to try and create my own versions.

What is the hardest part about your project?

It is hard for me to come up with a single image to reflect an entire novel. Also, the reduction linoleum printing process takes a lot of planning.

What are the basics of the process?

There is a piece of a linoleum - a soft wood board - and you carve your design into it. The reduction element requires you to continue carving and printing to add layers to the design. This means that you can use lots of colors and textures and emphasis.

{Isabel's linoleum board}

{a final print from the board}