Artist I Love: Lizzie Christian of RarePress
One thing that I want to do with this blog is highlight different artists and artisans. Graphic design and illustration is something I am very passionate about. It’s my hopes that by featuring things that I love, I can highlight others and give insight into their passions and what drives them to create.
I fell in love with Lizzie’s work on Instagram. @RarePress came up on my explore page a year ago and I immediately bought my first print from her the moment I saw it on her Etsy page. I love that there is a double meaning behind it. Fear less/Fearless. I wake up looking at it every morning, and it’s a great reminder of how I strive to go throughout my day- being fearless, taking chances without fearing the unknown.
I also just admire the medium of block printing. It takes so much precision and thoughtfulness. I reached out to Lizzie and asked her some questions about her process so we could all learn from her.
1. What in your life influences you the most?
I think I'm influenced by and find inspiration in music, plants, beautiful objects, creating (anything), and the people in my life. It's difficult to nail down one specific influence, but a combination of these things is what makes it worthwhile and exciting to get out of bed in the morning and embrace the day.
2. What is something that you absolutely love?
Walking around a quiet neighborhood on a warm spring night. I love the smells (blooming lilacs) and hopeful feelings that go along with it.
3. How & when did you learn blockprinting? How long did it take you to hone your skill?
I started experimenting with blockprinting in 2015, and I'm still learning every time I carve! I love the idea of reproducing an image, but having each print turn out slightly differently than the last. I also really enjoy letting go of control a little bit; the final image is never identical to the initial image in your mind, and it's okay to let go of those expectations.
4. What is your favorite artist or genre of music to listen to while creating?
I collect soul 45s from the 60s and 70s, but typically when I'm working I enjoy listening to either a podcast or classical music. Kind of boring, perhaps, but it keeps me from getting distracted (ie dancing!)
