Jill Kramer
STATEMENT
My most recent body of work is focused on the natural and deteriorating landscapes rendered as relief prints. These renderings are taken from first hand observations, sketches and plein air color studies. I am interested in creating lines, patterns and textures via marks on linoleum that will be reproduced in a final edition of prints. I use color as a means to emphasize scope of the terrain as well as to either flatten or create depth in the scene. I am intent on capturing these views in an attempt to bring attention to the beauty of the natural environment versus the built environment most of us live in today. I aim to create a moment of quiet in a busy chaotic world. I am influenced by illustrative & advertising block prints from the early to mid 20th century and contemporary mokuhanga prints. I combine linocut, watercolor and mono-printing for these varied editions. I want the viewer to experience a sense of awe & timelessness, a moment of quiet in a busy world.
BIO
I received my MA in Art Education from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and a BFA in printmaking from Kent State University. I’ve been a teaching artist for over 25 years and I’ve facilitated programs for preschoolers to senior citizens. I have exhibited work in the midwest states as well as Canada, Mexico and Nicaragua. I have been an Artist in Residence at Acadia National Park, illustrated a teachers storytelling book and have work in the collections of the Village of Oak Park, National Park Service, Private Bank Chicago, Chicago Bar Association and the Illinois Governors Office under George H. Ryan. My interest in arts administrative work has found place in public schools, museums and community art organizations. I work from my home studio in Oak Park, Illinois.