Self Portrait as a Clown

After the conceptualization of Greasepaint, I began drawing myself as a clown much more often to vent my emotions. At the time of this piece, I felt connected to the idea of a tired performer, exhausted by trying to explain my lack of energy to even myself. I decided to draw myself with a worried, exhausted gaze and cheery jester outfit right into a hard ground copper plate. The result, after a stage bite to add value, became one of my favorite pieces.

Etching on western paper, 6x6”

Greasepaint

Greasepaint explores the disconnection I feel with my emotions through self-portraits and clown makeup. The repeating portrait with different emotions monoprinted on top represent how separated my feelings and expressions of those feelings are. Even powerful bouts of sadness or anger can feel as though they are only for other people to see and not for me.

Linocut with Monoprint on western paper, 8x12”

The Rat Fool

In a surprisingly positive twist on my take on clown imagery, I decided to honor my best friend and her pet rats with an etching of her as a joyous jester. I cherish her friendship and her innate ability to always make me smile, and wanted to return the favor. This depiction is the first time the expression of the subject was genuine, and would lead to a transition in my clown imagery.

Etching on western paper, 7x12”

My Favorite Clowns

This piece was a graduation gift for my two roommates. Having lived with these guys for two years, I always described it as getting to live with a free daily comedy show. As they were graduating a year before me, I wanted to honor our time together and the joy we shared, and in doing so I presented myself as a joyful clown for the first time.

Photolithograph on western paper, 12x8”