Abigail Daniel

My work explores organic forms and human connection by working from direct observation and imagination. Nature, skulls, figures and the lived-in spaces of these figures are often the subject of my work. I work with things that are familiar to me; They elicit a reaction from me. These reactions manifest through decisive lines, bright colors, and dynamic compositions. I have an expressionist grip that stems from my compulsive, gestural handwriting. I tend to interpret the sensations I see and feel, and distort and adapt them to the spirit of the image. I use cohesive, vivid color combinations to simplify and harmonize the dissonance felt in the marks. The agitation in the marks, the solemn subjects, and the heightened color work with and against each other to devise an air of melancholy and zeal.

Printmaking allows me to make unique marks that require both active thinking and physical force. The act of cutting reminds me to not make arbitrary lines. The medium allows me to work fast, graphically and in states, recording my thought process through proofing. It is very fitting for me since I work fast and often rethink ideas. Printmaking enables me to experiment. The quick speed it takes to create a print allows me to completely discard the idea of making something that is visually pleasing, but rather make something that is visually engaging. Printing enables me to try different and new things that I would never have considered if I were creating just one image.