Dona Reed

Artist’s Statement

I started making prints in 1972 while an art student in college, and working with gourds in 1995. As an art student, art teacher and artist I have been fortunate to explore a wide range of media. But over the years, I keep returning to prints and gourds as the best ways to express my designs in both two and three dimensions. My art can then grace both the walls and tables of discerning art lovers.

Due to my love of the outdoors my designs are deeply influenced by nature, particularly in the Pacific Northwest where I live. I use strong lines and graphic shapes to create a simplified representation of natural subjects. I also use repetitive patterns, negative space and texture to create flowing movement and capture the subject’s essence. Most of my gourd pieces are monochromatic with touches of color that are applied by hand.

To create my relief prints, I first develop a design on paper, from initial sketches to final drawing. I transfer the finished drawing in reverse onto a block of wood or linoleum, then carve away the wood or linoleum that will make the print’s “white space”. I then ink the remaining, or raised, portion of the carved block, and transfer the ink to rice paper using a press or by hand. In some designs, I apply a touch of color by hand.

To create my gourd pieces, I first adapt my design to match the gourd’s natural shape. The lines of that design are then burned into the gourd’s surface and colors are applied with dyes, inks and/or paints. Some gourds are embellished with brass and beads, and sculptural effects are created by cutting the negative space out of the gourd, and painting the interior black.