From Monday, Sept. 16 through Wednesday, Sept. 18, nationally known printmaker Sean Starwars is hosting the sixth annual Printmaking Workshop sponsored by Southeastern’s Contemporary Art Gallery. He is working with students to make an edition of 20 prints, 10 of which will be donated to the CAG while the other ten will be added to Starwars’ collection.
Starwars earned his Masters of Fine Arts in printmaking from Louisiana State University and is one of the infamous “Outlaw Printmakers”. He visits about a half-dozen art programs around the country for visiting artist appearances each year. Starwars specializes in printmaking with woodcuts where a block of wood is carved away to leave a design in the relief.
“It’s the best way for [me] to make strong graphic imagery,” said Starwars, who enjoys creating woodcuts. “I guess my work is satirical; I like to tell funny stories using funny pictures. My goal is always to make work that is memorable and can stand on its own without me by its side to defend or explain it.”
The students are mixing colors and helping Starwars print a woodcut of a giant Japanese-inspired vintage robot that has invaded another planet. Starwars is also showing students the process of carving blocks for printing and has brought along extra blocks for students to print on T-shirts and other objects. This workshop is an excellent opportunity for students to learn more about making prints with woodcuts regardless of their area of study or their level of knowledge in printmaking.
“I’m interested in learning about relief block printing,” said Megan Michelli, a senior with a concentration in fine arts. “His method is different than the one I usually do.”
The workshop is also a chance for students studying in art to get advice from someone who is established in their field.
“It gives students a chance to work with a real artist and learn how to make a living as an artist,” said Ernest Milsted, an associate professor of art and the printmaking area coordinator.
Anyone who wants to participate in the printmaking workshop with Starwars should stop by Clark Hall, room 308 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. “I want everyone to know how much fun printmaking can be,” said Starwars. “I always try to emphasize that regardless of which medium you work in, as a student it is critical to develop a strong work ethic.”
To learn more about Starwars and his work, visit his website at www.seanstarwars.