I have worked full time as a printmaker and book artist for the past four decades. In recent years I have concentrated on making artists’ books although I continue to make prints with an eye to experimenting with monotypes and digital processes. LEOPARD STUDIO EDITIONS was established in 2002 and operates from a restored carriage house adjacent to my home and garden in Rochester, NY.
The world of books and stories, drawing, manipulating materials, sequenced imagery, the narrative, the allure of handmade papers, color’s emotional impact, the visceral world – all hold great interest for me and I feel a sense of adventure exploring these realms visually. Waiting to see what unfolds in the process; what lies beyond the bend or in hidden depths.
An interest in 19th century literature as well as contemporary poetry and psychology informs the work that I do. My husband, George and I have made a life involving restoration of historic properties here in Rochester and I think that the processes involved in this pursuit find parallels in my bookmaking. The making of structure, based in story, unbuilding and rebuilding, a love of materials, craftsmanship, design; a debt to the past with an eye to the future.
I often work with contemporary poets as well as printing my own writings in unique book formats. I print letterpress on a Vandercook #3 press. Etchings, monotypes and relief work are done on an Ettan etching press. All design, artwork and binding is done by me in the studio. I explore the use of eccentric materials such as plexi glass, wax, plant materials and felt in my bindings. A good amount of time is spent at The Printing and Book Arts Center in Rochester using their extensive collection of antique wood type. I have recently completed THIS PAST WINTER, pictured below, using antique wood type printed in white and hand waxed.
My current project is a trio of books inspired by the mystical poems of Rainer Maria Rilke which seem to be following a visceral trail from darkness to light.
View Sue’s artwork online at www.leopardstudioeditions.com. Stop by Main Street Arts to see Sue’s work in our current exhibition, Ink and Paper. The exhibition is up through Friday, March 25. Take a look at our previous Inside the Artist’s Studio blog post by painter Emily Glass.
