Big John Artist, Biker, Engineer, Instructor, Philanthropist.
Born in Cleveland, Ohio
Founder Bare Naked Press Company
Co-founder Circle Mountain Artist Assc.
Member Sonoran Art League
Juried Member Arizona Art Alliance

Artist Statement

While recovering from a near death motorcycle accident in 2003, my wife Irene encouraged me to take a printmaking workshop. This is where my passion for printmaking began, releasing me into a world of the unknown translating through the integration of photopolymer etching and lithographic processes. I have combined my art with innovative non-toxic techniques such as Collagraphy, Monoprint, digital imagery and transfers.

The relationship of technology and material, the physical, intellectual and sensuous processes are all combined in the discipline of print. One must understand the science behind the creation of art before one can be a true artist. There is nothing more satisfying than impressing a deep rich color onto pristine white paper!

By creating work without constraints of representation, the work can exist in its own right, as an object which may draw from the viewer their own sensation. Influenced by Picasso, Dali & Munch, my work in intaglio etching, monoprinting and the lithograph addressed issues of history, identity, memory and place. Images of objects and people I know serve as contemplative forms alluding to personal histories, a memory, and a collective recognition of the beauty of form, a perception of space or purity of a line. Making a mark is evidence of our own existence, past, present and future. The art is a part of me that lives on.

Sometimes our efforts bring us fame and fortune and sometimes our creativity goes unrecognized except by those close to us, those we love and those who love us. And yes, sometimes we work in complete isolation. This is the way it is for an artist. My deep interests in what went before and spiritual realms permeate my work.

My prints are limited editions. They are hand printed and there can always be a slight difference in tone & color, wherein lies the true beauty.