By Megan Carradine/south news editor

Last week, a New York artist got down and dirty with student-artists during a two-day printmaking workshop on South Campus.

The workshop began with the introduction of artist Ed Smith, professor of art at Marist College and Guggenheim fellow in sculpture and drawing. Then Smith showed students how to etch and what tools to use when doing so.

Students were excited to learn about the process.

“I learned an easier method for etching,” said student Forrest Crocker. “It was very helpful. I will try to use his methods in my work and build a small portfolio.”

Smith said he wanted students to remember two things and take them into their future careers.

“Proof often and always think process, not product,” he said.

Sophomore Mary Ayala said his words were insightful.

“When he said to ‘think process, not product,’ it helped me realize that my work is more than just a product because it takes a detailed process to get my work to where it needs to be.”

Smith said South Campus has a lot of talent. Two artists particularly stuck out in his mind, Charles Gray and Ayala.

“Both students are phenomenal,” Smith said. “I called a school in New York about Charles because I think he would do a great job there. I’m encouraging Mary to apply upstate too.” 

Charles Gray said he would like the chance to study as Smith suggested.

“I was offered the same opportunity last year, but because of financial stipulations, I wasn’t able to go,” he said. “I am going to apply and go this year, though.”

Ayala was surprised with Smith’s suggestion to study in New York.

“I am shocked. I didn’t think my work was that great,” she said.

“I am definitely going to apply upstate, though. It would be foolish not to after hearing someone like Mr. Smith tell me I’d do great.”

Smith says it takes not only talent but also hard work and dedication to make it in the profession.

“Talent doesn’t mean much. They’re a lot of guys pumping gas who have talent, but they do not have the determination or drive to get them where they could be,” he said. “If Charles gets himself into gear, he is going to go very far.”

Gray is studying to become a studio artist, and Ayala is studying to become a painter and printmaker.