Artist Statement: Freewheelin’ Series: Print-based collages
Freewheeling: verb [ no obj.] “to ride a bicycle with the pedals at rest, especially downhill --
(usu. as adj. freewheeling) act without concern for rules, conventions, or the consequences of one's actions.
For my Freewheelin’ Series, I carved a small linocut, incorporating the striking linear design of bicycle spokes (1/4 wheel). Then using a hand baren, I printed the quarter section, 4”x4” square.
Hand-printed block Hand-carved lino-block plate
Next, I have combined 16 photo images of the printed square into a larger collage. The combinations are endless, and that is the magic of the series. The results may be symmetrical or truly “freewheeling.” Sometimes a completed wheel forms the center. Other times the wheel/spoke reference is almost lost entirely.