Margot K. Rocklen

Margot received a BFA in Graphic Design from Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), an MS in Art Education from Southern Connecticut State University, and studied printmaking at CMU and Tyler School of Art in Italy. She has worked as a graphic designer and illustrator. A retired arts faculty member of New Haven’s Gateway Community College, Margot teaches courses at the Creative Arts Workshop in New Haven. She is a founding member of the Printmakers’ Network of Southern New England, and has coordinated exhibits and programs for the group. She is on the Board of the New Haven Paint & Clay Club where her work has been purchased for their permanent collection, and she is a member of the Monotype Guild of New England. 

Artist Statement: Often, I will use several printmaking methods in the production of a print. I like the natural aspect of Japanese woodblock (mokuhanga), and the ability to combine historical as well as contemporary tools and techniques. Working in the medium I notice that my visual and tactile senses heighten more than with any other printmaking process.

The spontaneous and eclectic character of monotype, and the serial potential of monoprint have influenced the way I work in traditional forms of printmaking as well as enameling. 

Throughout my artistic career one art form has led me to another, and all seem to relate in some way. Many of my recent projects feature transformational themes that benefit from monotype’s subtle layering of content and pattern, and the possibility of retaining some of the unexpected but pleasing effects that often occur while transferring an image from matrix to substrate, or firing an enamel piece.

My prints tend toward the narrative, often including symbolism and light irony. I combine elements from my sketches and photographs and spend time developing a composition and palette that reflect the message I want to communicate. My objective is to suggest rather than define meaning; but it is important to me that viewers sense the underlying significance of an image.

Contact: mkrgrfx@yahoo.com