Rylee Fast - SCREENPRINTING

Body of Work: Who is the Jesus You Know?

Artist Statement

In my art practice, the goal is to create spaces that stimulate curiosity, pensive reflection, and understanding of others. I do this by exploring themes of relational connection, Christianity, and evolving perspectives. I investigate these themes through screen-printing, drawing, and photography mediums. For this body of work, I focus on silk-screen printing and risograph techniques to create graphical pieces that emphasize text, layering of diverse elements, and an inquiry of color theories. The work seeks to lovingly address distorted views of what people have made Christianity to be by directing viewers to the truths within the Bible of who Christ is and who we are to Him.

According to a study done by The Global Center for Religious Research, approximately 1/3 of U.S. adults have experienced religious trauma at some point in their life. As a result, people encounter an isolating fear of rejection from God or their community, anxiety around Hell or salvation, feelings of unworthiness, etc. These pieces are meant to acknowledge this reality and meet viewers where they are at. Screen-printing mediums such as ink, foil, and watercolor are used to enhance contrast and create depth within each piece and risograph printing is used in the process of zine creation which gives an overview of the truths behind the body of work. I also highlight the dichotomy between detailed landscapes and patterns paired with simplistic overlays of objects, characters, and text. Through readable, writeable, and wearable pieces, I invite viewers to physically interact with both the informative and reflective qualities of the work.

The Good News (God's Heart for You & Me) Zine

May 1st, 2024

Medium: Risograph on linen paper