September 1st I started my one year residency at Lillstreet Art Center in Chicago, IL. They have six different departments which include ceramics, metalsmithing, jewelry & glass, painting & drawing, Printmaking & book arts, textiles, digital arts & photography. Within these departments they offer an array of classes from beginner to advanced. They also have a roof top garden and keep honeybees (delicious honey that they sell) The rooftop has an outdoor gallery space. It is a space where artist can install four flags that will hang from the top of the rooftop. The installation rotates monthly. Check it out you can see them if you walk or drive by just look up! Each department has an Artist-In-Residence for the year. There is a gallery space as well as small cafe. I am honored to be affiliated with them for the next year. It is exciting to be around so many creative people from all different backgrounds. Sometimes you are so interconnected to your own discipline you don’t allow for growth from other avenues. I am hoping I can take away a variety of skills from all different mediums after my residency ends. As the Residence of Printmaking & Book Arts I am teaching bookbinding and printmaking classes, I am creating new work, and I have the opportunity to take classes in all six departments. Taking classes in other departments was a perk for me. I am always interested in learning new mediums and finding ways to incorporate them in my work. Lately I have been incorporating sewing in my prints. I am not sure what direction it will take but I am hoping that the textile classes I am taking will be incorporated in my work. If you are in the Chicago area on Friday, October 21st at 6pm all of the Artist-In-Residences are giving 10 minute lectures about their work. Come and check out all the artist! If you have ever had the urge to learn bookbinding or printmaking come take one of my classes!!
Printmaking Studio
Rooftop
JENNA RODRIGUEZ 