About the Work

My work consists of monotype (single print) backgrounds that are then collaged with other printed material. I handprint all materials using etching inks, Rives BFK archival paper, and Japanese and decorative rice papers. The basic process begins with the printing of the background paper. This ranges from a simple color and texture combination to layers and layers of color and many passes through the press. After the background is printed I choose from the vast palette of my printed collage papers or I may print more if none are suitable. Subject and design happen in response to the background. Color is of utmost importance. I lay out many different possibilities until the result has the right feel of movement, rhythm, and mood. At this point the papers are glued down. I enjoy using a simple motif such as bottles or figures and then abstracting it. Lately I have experimented with completely abstract work. I count among my influences my mother, Miriam French Batchelor, who studied with both Anni and Josef Albers, and many other collage artists and colorists such as Picasso, Stuart Davis, and Romare Bearden.

Linda Batchelor, 2003