MaryFaith Morison
About
MaryFaith Morison, originally from the west coast of the United States, gained recognition as a skilled metalsmith under the mentorship of Stieg Gusterman in Georgetown, Colorado. Her apprenticeship paved the way for further training with Thomas Schlicting in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Upon returning to the United States, MaryFaith founded MF Morison Designs, a well-known studio specializing in creating prototypes for mass casting in various jewelry manufacturing companies.
After a successful career in metalsmithing, MaryFaith moved to San Francisco to explore printmaking at the San Francisco Art Institute under Michi Itami. Working out of U.C. Berkeley Open Studio and the Fort Mason Printmaking Department, she discovered her passion for printmaking and its intricate artistic process.
MaryFaith's work draws inspiration from nature, showcasing clear abstractions while avoiding explicit narratives like "save the birds or save the planet." Her artistic intention focuses more on creating a visual rhythm that resonates with viewers.
In 2001, MaryFaith relocated to Searsmont, Maine, where she became deeply involved in the local artist community. She co-founded 'Press Hard,' a printmaking collective based at Waterfall Arts in Belfast, Maine, and remains an active member of the Waterfall Arts collaborative, consistently expanding her portfolio.
MaryFaith's approach to printmaking may seem paradoxical – desiring both intuition and spontaneity in a medium often associated with precision and sequential processes. Etching copper plates with elements of chine collé and debossment, she navigates the challenges posed by the preciousness of copper and its environmental impact.
Conscious of the ecological costs of mining, refining, milling, packaging, and transportation associated with copper, MaryFaith works meticulously, defying the spontaneous urge. To balance intuition with precision, she employs 'story boards' before starting a new plate, experimenting with imagery, mood, and design elements.
A unique tactic in her pursuit of spontaneity involves chine collé – the incorporation of thin organic papers dampened and placed on the already etched and inked copper plate before going through the press.
"Intention as Image" and "Image is Communication" are central themes in MaryFaith's artistic philosophy. She prefers not to extensively elaborate on the intention behind her work verbally, believing that words often fall short in expressing the depth of communication achieved through visual art.