Prints & Other 2D Art
Lithographs, Monotypes & More ...
Working in two-dimensions helps me feel connected to the ancient artists of my Native American ancestors, who etched out thousands upon thousands of pictographs and petroglyphs up and down the Big River.
One time, when there was a show somewhere of some of my 2D works, a Native American elder from South Dakota asked if I had permission from the spirits to create these prints that I had etched. I sincerely felt at the time that I had, and I thanked the elder for helping me to stay true to the inner meaning of my work.
I am forever grateful to that elder for reminding me of my true obligation as an artist.
The Types of Prints Lillian Creates
Lillian creates a number of different types of prints, including monotypes, lithographs, and dry-point etchings. The processes she uses, except for the lithograph process, require that some sort of etching be made on a plate or that images be carved out of some type of material.
- Monotypes, not to be mistaken with "monoprints" are prints that are truly one of a kind. Only one high-quality print of an image can be created with the "monotyping" process.
- Monoprints are similar to monotypes in that no two prints are ever exactly alike. However, with monoprints, multiple images of the base design can be made while other parts of the image are made to change with each "pull" of the press. (Currently, Lillian only creates monotypes.)
- Dry-point etching is an "intaglio" technique used in preparing metal plates for printmaking, whereby lines are scratched directly into the plate. The thickness of the lines occurs by applying more or less pressue or through use of different sized etching needles.
- Lithographs are copies of an original work created by an artist. They're different from monotypes and monoprints in that a lithograph is actually drawn by the artist and not etched. Typically they are sold in limited editions.
Pendleton Blanket and Tapestry
Lillian has also created designs for a Pendleton blanket as well as for a Pendleton tapestry.
The
blanket was commissed by the Museum
at Warm Springs,
and provides a graphical interpretation of the legend
of Coyote and the Huckleberry Sisters, as handed down
to Lillian by a favorite aunt.
The idea for doing the tapestry came from Pendleton Woolen Mills. Pendleton asked Lillian if they could use one of her drawings to create a limited edition of a tapestry. She agreed, and decided to use a dry point print she had previously etched called "Crow Takes Leave of Family." A limited edition of 30 was produced.
Slide Control Bar
Mouse over slide number to see small image, then click on number to see larger image.
Where Lillian Makes Her Prints
Lillian makes most of her prints at the Crows Shadow Institute of the Arts in Pendleton, Oregon and at Atelier 6,000 in Bend, Oregon.
Crow's Shadow Institute of the Arts, founded by renowned artist James Lavador and friends in 1992, exists for the purpose of creating a bridge between the contemporary art scene and the traditional world of Native American arts. It operates at the intersection of both of these worlds, and aims to help contemporary Native American artists advance their arts.
Atelier
6000 in
Bend, Oregon, is a 2000 square foot studio-workshop
where nationally acclaimed artists and students
create limited edition hand-pulled prints and handmade
books.
Atelier 6000 offers classes, workshops, artist residencies and other opportunities for artists to advance their careers.