America’s Honesty Identity was intended to be a thoughtful coffee-table centerpiece. My intention was to use printmaking and stationery as a vehicle for critical discourse. Within this project you’ll find truths and heart-stopping statistics contrasted by elegant printing techniques.

Through this process I have become highly inspired and motivated to transition from making traditional stationery (invitations, greeting cards) towards making pieces that embody culture, while also functionally serving the community and initiating conversations. ​​​​​​​

This technique is considered a blind-press, because ink is not used. Incorporating debossing techniques throughout was really important because I wanted to enhance the prints and bring attention to specific design elements. With texture being an important part of our interaction with art, I really wanted people to enjoy holding each piece. 

However accomplishing this goal proved to be very difficult. In addition to determining which machine would be best, I had to test and retest. Packing and tympan had to continuously be calculated and changed. 

Most of the statistics were derived from reputable books which I used as source material, such as The American Crisis: What Went Wrong. How We Recover, and 

Adding texture for visual interest and calling attention to important information

planning, researching, and drafting initial design concepts

Ordering polymer plates: The plate image and text is in reverse so when mounted onto the base system in the press, it will be inked and print right-reading onto the paper.