Julie Cowan
I have two interests: portraiture and architecture. I investigate the idea of place and how spaces make us feel either embraced or alienated. Using architectural themes, I select photographic imagery and then digitally alter the photos to create greater contrasts and stronger line. Often I will layer various photographic elements to create new spaces. With portraiture, I usually make large close up images that reveal imperfection through the printmaking technique itself.
These pieces have layers of printmaking applications. First I shoot the photographic image. Then, once digitally altered, I print the image using a paper transfer process with oil-based ink. I then often layer using a monotype process. Details on the print are often hand-colored with pencil or watercolor.