Rachel Mentzer is an artist and educator based in Ohio, who creates collagraph prints that explore themes of sustainability, environmental renewal, and nature’s resilience. Through her work, Rachel critiques the cycle of overproduction and waste while celebrating nature’s ability to reclaim human-made spaces.
Rachel repurposes discarded materials, such as boxes and debris, to create collagraph plates. By carving away layers of cardboard, she reveals the negative of the image, which is then inked and printed intaglio. She incorporates chine collé, using colorful mulberry paper backgrounds to enhance her pieces. Her eco-friendly, non-toxic approach contrasts with traditional printmaking methods, reflecting her commitment to sustainability. Her art invites viewers to reflect on the interplay between human activity and the natural world, emphasizing the adaptability and fragility of nature. Through her work, Rachel hopes to raise awareness of environmental issues and inspire a more harmonious relationship between humanity and the earth. |