Kate Watkins Hampshire, United Kingdom

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I'm an artist, printmaker and teacher based near Southampton in Hampshire. I've been printing for over twenty years and have a fascination for the range and variety of techniques and processes which fall under the umbrella of printmaking. I'm currently focusing on monoprint and screenprinting in my practice.

I currently create one off abstract geometric prints or small editions which are intended as representations of architectural forms which provide the viewer with a meditative space in which to take shelter. Created using Collagraph, block printing and screenprinting techniques each piece is created over several sessions, progressively developing an interplay between overlapping shapes by building layers of transparent ink. My exploration of the uplifting and restorative power of colour came about following my parent's dementia diagnosis and a need to look inwards for therapeutic connections and focus during a very challenging time. Alongside the geometric shelter forms I have also embraced my interests in abstraction and mark making through circular one-off screenprints. Hand drawn marks on drafting film are transferred to screens and printed layer upon layer in an explosion of colour and energy. I graduated from Winchester School of Art in 2008 with an MA in Fine Art Printmaking and am lucky enough to be able to continue to develop my work and share my love of printmaking through my work as a printmaking instructor at a University in Hampshire. I have exhibited widely in solo and mixed exhibitions. Highlights include ARC winchester Beneath the surface solo exhibition, The Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair, Royal West of England Academy and Rheged Great Print Exhibition.