Spotlight On: Hope Howard

What first drew you to screenprinting and relief printmaking? What makes it your preferred medium compared to others?
I was drawn to printmaking because of its process. There are many steps of the process before you get to pull a print, making it engaging, explorative, and gives freedom to be intuitive. Art for me is not just a way of expression, but also a meditative practice. I love how versatile these methods are, and love to explore and play with new ways of using these methods.

What do you enjoy most about teaching at CCAE?
CCAE is an amazing community space that has so much to offer! At CCAE I feel I have the perfect balance of creative autonomy and support from administration which gives me confidence as an instructor.

How has being an instructor influenced your own personal work?
What has influenced me the most are the participants in my courses and workshops! One of my beliefs as an instructor is to promote play and exploration in our art practice. Because students are encouraged to experiment, I am amazed and inspired by the methods and non-traditional ways we use these mediums. I always learn something new while teaching!

Your print pieces are bold in colors and themes – what do you aim to express in your personal artwork?
In my personal work I play with the duality of hard versus soft. My pieces often have edgy or “punk” themes, with bright colors and spiritual messaging that may seem like a contrast. I’ve always been a softie at heart, but like to have more of a rebel exterior and I think my pieces convey the same message. When I’m showing my art people often say, “This heals my inner teenager!”

In addition to your printmaking classes, you also lead the course “Upcycle Clothes with DIY Screen Printing” – what was the inspiration to cross over into textiles and upcycling?
Consumerism is a huge problem in our society and is detrimental to our environment. I created this workshop for people to not only learn a new skill, but to find a way to make clothes or textiles “new” again. We learn how to make our own screen with materials you can easily and affordably access and you’ll be able to add your own personal flair to your wardrobe.

What advice would you give to a student taking their first printmaking class?
Your number one goal should be to have fun! The art of printmaking is a process, and you will learn and be supported through that process - giving you confidence to explore your creativity. You do not need to have an art background or any creative experience to be successful.