Bottoms Up

 As part of the Durango Arts Center’s “August is for Art” enrichment programs, students are learning the basics of printmaking. And tackling this time-honored tradition can sometimes be a messy job. But with a little direction and a thirst for creativity, these youngsters are bringing paper to life in rich, vibrant color, all printed by hand. Here’s a look:

  • Emerging artist Rabun Shropshire reveals the ancient secrets of the “handprint.”
    Emerging artist Rabun Shropshire reveals the ancient secrets of the “handprint.”
  • Sometimes mixing colors with copious amounts of paint is more fun than the actual printmaking...
    Sometimes mixing colors with copious amounts of paint is more fun than the actual printmaking...
  • After a morning of cranking out originals, sisters Gabriella and Annika Piccaro, and Samantha Medina lay out their handiwork for critique.
    After a morning of cranking out originals, sisters Gabriella and Annika Piccaro, and Samantha Medina lay out their handiwork for critique.
  • Fresh prints lay on the drying rack.
    Fresh prints lay on the drying rack.
  • The tedious task of removing excess paint to reveal different layers can be well worth the extra effort.
    The tedious task of removing excess paint to reveal different layers can be well worth the extra effort.
  • Tools of the trade
    Tools of the trade