Cover Art

On the Cover | Dec. 2, 2010

learn about this issue's cover art by Christine Style

V1 Staff |

“Mischievous Heart” by Christine Style
(2010, woodcut print with hand coloring, 22” x 16”)

John Houseman
 
Christine Style
Mischievous Heart is part of a series of woodcuts that refer to inner stories of the heart. As with other works in this series, a figure is shown opened up and on display, referencing the vintage medical diagrams I collect.The mischievous young Hindu monkey god, Hanuman lives in the heart while a fanciful golden bird answers the call and encourages play in the figures speech bubble. I find comfort in carving wood, a printmaking medium used for thousands of years and in many cultures and yet I also embrace the digital tools available today. In another series of works I create digital print abstractions using Illustrator and Photoshop that are layered in encaustic, another ancient process.” – The Artist

 

What we were thinking: “Volume One publisher Nick Meyer actually chose this artwork. From my recollection he was down in southern wisconsin somewhere and saw this wood cut piece as one of the works from art tour. Basically this piece was chosen for its complete abstract qualities that were very eye catching. We had never run a woodcut before let alone a piece that looked as perplexing as this.

From a graphic design stand point I enjoy how bold everything is. There is a distinct separation between the background and foreground imagery by the use of simple vertical lines and complex illustrations. The underlying message is unknown (at least I don't know what's being implied) but by just observing the work one can appreciate nuances in "old school" printing tactics such as woodcut printing.” – V1 Designer Josh Smeltzer

Volume One finds its cover art in a number of ways, from local art shows to random emails to knowing someone who knows someone who knows a great artist. The art always originates from a current or former Chippewa Valley resident. If you'd like to submit cover art, send us a letter.