Greenwich Academy Alumnae

The intricate process of printmaking captured Elizabeth Rankin's attention in college and during her post-graduate studies in art. Most recently, she produced a body of work using photo polymer plates depicting images inspired by architecture and landscape. Originally produced using a variety of materials, such as watercolor, ink and charcoal, her images are prepared on single-sided, frosted Mylar, a translucent paper that can be used like a negative to develop images on a light-sensitive plate. These images then are developed onto photo polymer plates, using a light exposure unit and a water bath. Finally, when the plates are dry, the images are printed, employing ink and delicate wiping just as an intaglio plate would be prepared and printed on rag paper.

The images are abstract black and white prints that explore the use of line, value and composition. These works are an attempt to describe the world and the artist's emotional state and perspective. Though non-representational, this work relies on the viewer to recognize elements that are universal, such as landscape and architecture. Although they clearly escape real-world conformity, they present elements that are intended to comfort and provide unusual space for the viewer and artist to explore.

Q: What inspires your art?
A: "Although I am not pursuing a career in the visual arts, I am trying to fulfill a desire to express myself and share my visual interpretations. My imagery and my pursuits are inspired by experiences that I value, impressive elements from my surroundings and the challenge of expressing myself in a way that is visually stimulating. It also is critical to draw inspiration and question what other artists produce."

Q: How did GA prepare you in art?
A: "Greenwich Academy provided me with my first formal introduction to the art world. I gained a greater understanding of the world, history and the context of art in society from my experiences at GA. Sherry Tamalonis shared with her students the culture of the art world with her students and encouraged us to pursue it as a great adventure. In addition, I was constantly supported in my artistic pursuits by the faculty at GA. I established confidence in my abilities during my time there. This was a great gift and a unique opportunity."

Q: Did you have mentors at Greenwich Academy?
A: "Although I value all the support I received during my time at the Academy, I received particular attention from Jeff Schwartz and Sherry Tamalonis. These two faculty unselfishly invested time, faith and guidance in my work and in my future."

Q: How did you train in art after GA?
A: "Working toward my degree in fine art was excellent preparation for developing an interest, education and appreciation for continuing artistic pursuits. Of course, studying for a college degree is not a realistic representation of what life after school has to offer an artist. However, it is a time of immense opportunity, and I did my best to take advantage of the freedom and time that was ultimately at my disposal during my last year. My time in college allowed me to work single mindedly on my artwork and explore other challenges that an artist will face. In addition, I became aware of an artist's need to maintain a portfolio, meet people, create an exhibition and ensure that my work would be shown. I found college to be the best time and place to experiment and learn about what is involved."

Q: What is your advice for students and alumnae interested in pursuing fine art as a career?
A: "Anyone interested in pursuing art as a career should work all the time. The successful artists I know never stop working. They are always drawing, taking pictures, jotting notes, keeping files of ideas and collecting inspirational material, journaling. Artists also have a responsibility to themselves and to their community to stay in touch with what other artists are doing and have done. In this way, you support the community you are part of and increase your experience and understanding of concepts and imagery. Once you start doing this, it actually is hard to stop; it is also a great way to sort through ideas before you begin a big project."

College:
University of Massachusetts, BFA with a concentration in printmaking

Post College:
Ghost Ranch Conference Center, Abiqiui, NM
La Napoule Art Foundation, LaNapoule, France

Arts Awards:
Deborah Fennesy Award 2001, University of Massachusetts
Deborah Fennesy Award 2002, University of Massachusetts
Award for Excellence in Art 2001, University of Massachusetts