About Marian Wachter
The focus of my work has evolved in exciting ways for me. Many of my earlier prints were introspective, focusing on the experiences and personal feelings I was exploring in my life. Motherhood — and living in the world as a woman — were important themes. I believe those experiences are universal and fertile ground for expression.
I’ve long had a deep connection to nature, with plants and animals appearing in my work. In recent years, my focus has shifted even more to my relationship to the natural world and my love of it. I often ask myself: what is my place in relation to the plants and animals that inhabit nature? What are my responsibilities?
I began a series of prints depicting threatened and endangered plants of the Northwest. I’ve seen many of these strikingly beautiful plants on my hikes in the mountains of Washington State. I hope those viewing my art will be touched by the beauty of these plants and sense the potential loss should they become extinct.
I’ve chosen printmaking as my medium because of the endless variety it offers. There are always new techniques to explore and fresh and surprising ways to combine them. Most of my recent work has combined either woodblock or linoleum relief printing with collagraph techniques. I’ve also incorporated etching, monoprints, mokulito, plate lithography, Xerox transfer and hand drawing into my prints.