Seen and Heard: Vera Fainshtein : Chinatown San Francisco Diptych

15" x 12" in frames (each), monotype, chine colle 

Artist Statement: 

Chinatown San Francisco” is an experimental series dedicated to one of the oldest neighborhoods in San Francisco. My objective was to celebrate the rich history of the neighborhood by layering various visual elements to signify the passing of time. My goal was to focus on textures, make type an important visual element, and depart from the observational and figurative work that I’ve been doing in the past. 

Having recently learned various printmaking techniques, I experimented with combining wax rubbings, gelli printing (monotype), and chine collé. The visual elements come from Chinatown itself: I used wax rubbings of metal plaques and signage and incorporated Chinese paper used for a ceremony in honor of the ancestors. The color palette was based on my research about Chinese culture and inspired by my visit to the neighborhood.

To view more of my work, follow me on IG @verafanya.