Lenore Thomas Printmaking Demo

Lenore Thomas's demo was a useful insight into mixed media printmaking. In examples of her own work, she showed us how lithography, etching, silkscreening, and Xerox transfer in addition to painting and drawing can all be combined in one piece. She explained that in the present, unlike past artistic periods, "no one expects you to be just a painter, a sculptor, or a printmaker...use the medium that feels right for the project."

She demonstrated using white on white etching, multiple plates on one paper, and layering of different processes. She reuses some of her plates numerous times. While a repeating pattern can sometimes be recognized in her pieces, she also feels that it is important for printmakers to experiment.

She also pointed out ways a printmaker can use mistakes to their advantage. If something doesn't come out the way you expected, she says, use it as an opportunity to try something different. Don't rush through a project or get locked into a set pattern or printing technique. Printmaking is all about the process and requires time and dedication.