Introducing: Patty Castellini
The work of New Hampshire-based printmaker, Patty Castellini, first caught my eye on a stroll through a gallery in Stowe, Vermont in 2017. I found myself captivated by the soulful and contemplative movement in her colorful monotype prints.
Fast forward to 2021 - as I was in the process of opening The Willard Gallery and building out the roster, Patty was one of the first artists I contacted about working together and I was thrilled when she agreed to come on board.
This March I had the chance to meet Patty at her studio in Enfield, NH and photograph a bit of the process involved in creating her original monotype prints. While she applied her chosen inks to a sheet of plexiglass before sending a sheet of handmade cotton paper through her etching press, we chatted about her love for the sea, her background as a Montessori educator, her grandchildren, and so much more.
I’m delighted to be able to offer a glimpse into Patty’s process, her inspiration, and some of her artistic philosophies.
Describe the process of creating your monotype prints.
My process begins with adjusting the pressure my etching press and choosing ink colors. I then spend as much time as I like mixing the buttery oil inks . This process can take a very long time or can be immediate straight from the tube. As I mix the inks, a flood of ideas enter my mind. I realize this step in my imagination brings me great joy.
I apply oil based ink on a sheet of plexiglass. I use rubber brayers and palette knives to apply the ink. I soak a sheet of Rives printmaking paper in a tub of water for several minutes, take it out and blot away the excess water. I place the paper on the plexiglass and send it through an etching press. I pull the paper off carefully and see my print. As I find a place to dry my print, another flood of ideas enter my mind for the next one.
How does color influence your work?
Color is the beginning of my creative shift from technical plans to being present with my art. Mixing colors is so enjoyable, I allow a lot of time for this. Many hours can pass, I really don't have any time restrictions. I have thoughts telling me I can apply them now, later or tomorrow. I never feel rushed. It's fun mixing 20 different shades of blue. I love this step.
What feelings do you hope your art might evoke for a first time viewer?
I hope the first time viewer sees or feels a memory associated with the color I use. I hope they see their own story. I hope they are curious to learn what it is that is making them look at my work.
What drives you to create?
The printmaking process drives me to create. It has held my attention over the years with it's meditative and peaceful steps along with the element of surprise. The sensorial experiences involved with mixing and seeing the colors is a joyful process for me.
Describe your relationship with the ocean and how it influences your work.
Going to the ocean was my favorite childhood experience. The stretch of ocean from Rye, NH to Portland, ME is my favorite place to be and I make sure I give this beautiful gift to myself several times a year. When I teach art classes my first question is what do you love? I encourage them to bring that feeling into their art space. For me it's the ocean.
Where do you find your inspiration?
My inspiration is my family, my service of helping people in need, children, animals, light behind the clouds, the sun setting on the ocean, impermanence, and the present moment.
What advice do you have for artists who are just beginning?
If you love creating art, figure out a way to give this gift to yourself.
