Rising Stars: Meet Amy Simons

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Simons.

Hi Amy, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have lived in the midwest, northwest, and now the southwest United States. My art-making journey started with functional pottery while growing up in Minnesota. I studied ceramic sculpture and geology at the University of Washington, followed by a two-year residency at Pottery Northwest in Seattle.

Somewhere along the way I started printmaking and have never looked back! I’m now pursuing a graduate degree in studio art at Arizona State University focusing on printmaking while continuing to explore textiles, ceramics, and drawing.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has certainly been a winding road, but one step has always led to the next in a logical way. I taught yoga for a while which actually opened up scholarship opportunities at Penland School of Craft in North Carolina and that turned out to be a very formative experience.

I’ve always just made what seemed like the best decision at the time and focused more on generating options rather than plotting a specific path. I would have never predicted this life but am so lucky to have met and been supported by so many incredible people!

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My current research explores monotype printmaking on handmade paper, often incorporating handwoven textiles as physical components, inky ghosts, or deep embossments. Monotypes are each unique and thus sort of the black sheep of the print world.

My artistic practice takes more of a handyman approach than specializing, which is something I used to be self-conscious about but now I really embrace it; I know my interest will always change, I’ll keep getting excited about new materials and processes and continue to drive down different rabbit holes.

Some unifying elements of my work are interest in connection and the preservation of touch, focusing on simple methods of making and appreciating rather than over manipulating materials. My practice is full of surprise and delight, which is something I’m proud of and love to share with others.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Absolutely! I love audiobooks and use the apps Libby and Hoopla which are free through the fabulous Phoenix Public Library system. A recent favorite audiobook is The Overstory by Richard Powers. Some podcasts I enjoy are On Being and The Ezra Klein Show, both of which are interview formats with a great variety of guests.

Pricing:

• $50-500, depending on size. Please contact me to inquire.

Contact Info:

• Email: amy@amysimons.com
• Website: www.amysimons.com
• Instagram: fast_loose_press

Image Credits
Jessica Alderson of Alder Photography