Rogena Degge  --  Artist’s Statement
[August 2009] 

For over 25 years as a university professor, I addressed the cultural and political power of the arts and encouraged my students to explore its influence on our individual and collective lives.

Today I am a printmaker.  My fine arts background in drawing, painting, and photography has been a foundation as I explore the challenges in producing monotypes and etchings.  My work spans a range of subject matter and abstract imagery.  The essence of my passion and style is perhaps best explained through my current obsession with birds.

A birding safari in Tanzania changed my life and my art.  In observing the mystery of birds’ expressions and their engaging behaviors I have found a compelling attitude or unique form as inspiration. The African Bee-eater, the incomparable grace of egrets, and the night glow of herons hold equal fascination for me as a muscovy duck crossing park pavement.
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Birds suit my style and love of curved, sweeping lines.  They speak to my playful side.  They challenge my skills in layering color and shapes and creating satisfying forms.  They are, for me, an unending source for technical and expressive explorations of color and design, utilizing various media.

My work is evolving as I find and pursue more abstract elements in all manner of subjects.  My visions consistently challenge my skills and these propel me forward. I created this site so you might explore with me the engaging aspects of printmaking that I enjoy so intensely!