Elaine Benjamin

likes to engage the viewer with simple universal themes expressed in prints and figurative assemblages.

My studio, Blue Chair Press, is located in the historic Advocate Press Building in sunny Blue Lake, and is a huge inspiration in my work. The large space allows me to embrace more than just the printing and bookmaking with which I started, and the good vibes from the original business remind me to keep things simple (despite the computer and accessories in the back room). Making books is a fantastic combination of art, craft, and text, and is immensely satisfying. It always surprises me when I take a detour and start something else. Printing — either block prints on the etching press or digital images from the computer — is a natural off-shoot, but the art dolls tend to barge in without an invitation, demanding attention. (Each one comes with its own story, though, so they are not that far removed from the books.) To see more of my work, please go to bluechairpress.com or call the studio for an appointment (707-668-0112).

Creating art is usually a solitary endeavor, but here in Humboldt County, we find ways to support each other with joy and celebration.