Studio Lead Spotlight - Akane Kleinkopf

Meet Akane - PRINT Studio Lead

What drew you to this art form specifically?

I’ve always felt artsy and craftsy, but I never really connected with drawing or painting. Printmaking appealed to me because it sits at that perfect intersection between “art” and “craft.” When I was in college, one of my frisbee teammates was really into printmaking—her work was so cool, it made me want to try it too.

What made you stick with it?

I love the process. Printmaking can be methodical, meditative, or totally experimental. There’s something really satisfying about the physicality of carving, printing, and repeating. The rhythm of it keeps me coming back.

What’s your favorite thing you’ve ever made?

One of my very first pieces is still my favorite: a 4x8 woodblock printed with a steamroller at the Dia de los Muertos festival in Walla Walla, WA. It was made from MDF board and designed to look like a playing card, showing Emiliano Zapata in mirrored, flesh and skeletal forms. It was big, bold, and meaningful.

How did your parents feel about you becoming an artist?

They think it’s cool! I’ve been lucky to have very supportive and chill parents who want me to explore things and pursue what brings me joy.

What’s your favorite class to teach?

Right now, I love teaching woodblock. Some students are initially intimidated by the idea of carving into wood, so the ones who dive in tend to get really curious and experimental—and that leads to some incredible results.

Where do you recommend people start with this art form?

The sampler class is a great way to get a feel for the wide range of techniques printmaking includes. If you’re looking for something specific to start with, linoleum is a great intro—it’s accessible, tactile, and has fewer variables to manage than other methods.

If you didn’t teach Printmaking, what other would you want to practice or teach?

I’m really drawn to installation work and sculpture—something more interdisciplinary. I think fiber arts would naturally find a way into whatever I’d explore next.