Minneapolis/USA-based mixed media artist Amy Rice’s nostalgic, whimsical works are deeply
defined by her midwestern roots. Growing up in a rural area, Rice found inspiration in the
surrounding flora and fauna; she naturally developed an intrinsic appreciation for the simplistic yet
beautiful things in life. Rice is most satisfied when a tangible or visceral connection is built between
the materials used and the image rendered. Her work is deeply layered, often both literally and
figuratively. Her evocative, wistful imagery is largely biographical and reflective of her pensive
nature.
Using non-traditional printmaking methods such as hand-cut stencils and a Japanese toy Gocco
printer as a jumping off point, Rice develops the basis for her signature, one of a kind mixed media
pieces. She combines, layers and experiments with many different mediums and tools including
enamels, acrylics, gouache, inks, hand-carved linoleum print blocks and a antique letterpress
machine. Rice searches out unique and meaningful surfaces that can run the gamut from antique
papers such as handwritten love letters, journal pages, sheet music and maps to antique fabrics
including heirloom embroidery and feed sacks from her family’s dairy farm.
Rice enjoys working themes and imagery into her pieces such as bicycles, found objects,
gardening, collective endeavors that challenge hierarchy, acts of compassion, downright silliness
and things with wings.