Providence, Rhode Island
| June 17, 2008

What an awful photograph.

Providence doesn't typically look all that gloomy and disgusting...well, actually, perhaps it does. The city is known for it's array of outstanding colleges and universities, as well as it's very own (and very obscure) art and music scene. This is probably the most influencial aspect that the city has had on me. Ever since I stepped into the studio of New Urban Arts (www.newurbanarts.org), I was punched in the gut with inspiration. "Mentor" programs and free studio spaces of many local non-profit organizations fill in the gaps that many public high schools currently hold and continue to gouge. Eventually, I plan on establishing my own similar studio space that provides these free programs to young adults. I feel as if I must give back what the organizations in Providence have given to me.

 

Other organizations have also made a huge impact on my life, particularly AS220 (www.as220.org). It is slowly developing into a hipster breeding ground, however, who can blame the expanse of art and obscure music lovers? By conforming, we are inevitably not conforming...anyway, that is another story. Bands such as Lightning Bolt, The Chinese Stars, and Mahi Mahi were all practically born in that venue/bar/studio/artist in residence/resturant/cafe! Inspiration and creativity bloom out of the doors of AS220! This city is constantly growing and changing to provide and awknowledge more and more artists and their creative practices.

Screen printing is a huge deal in this city. Nearly every single coffee shop has walls that are lined, from floor to ceiling, with screen printed posters. They advertise everything from bike swaps to crazy dance parties in loft apartments. During my sophomore year in high school, I was fortunate to have been taught the intense process by local printer, Jean Cozzens (www.secretdoorprojects.org). Since then I have made several prints, but most importantly, had the courage to explore different mediums.

There is so much more about this city that I am most likely leaving out.

Tags:  artists, providence, rhode island, silk screening

Topic: Screen-printing