MCKINZIE LEFSTEIN

About the Artist

As a little girl growing up in Baltimore City, McKinzie enjoyed doodling, creating characters, and making her own storybooks out of folded printer paper and bus ticket stubs.  In 2003 she graduated from Towson University with a BA in Illustration. At Towson she discovered the process of linoleum block printing, which has since become her medium of choice, although she also works in pen and ink, watercolor, acrylic, oils, and colored pencils. Her illustrations reveal her sense of humor and love of detail and storytelling. Her work has been exhibited in several local galleries, as well as national juried shows in Annapolis and The Museum of American Illustration in New York City. Her work also includes a CD cover and promotional materials for a local band, tee shirt designs, portraits, and holiday cards. She continues to lives in Baltimore in a wonderfully colorful little house with her sweet husband, Ben, and adorable son, Seeger, who is disappointed that she can't juggle bananas with her hands and feet. Awards:-John Blair Mitchell Printmaking Award (2003) -Three Arts Club of Homeland - Mr. And Mrs. Robert L. Simmons Award - presented for excellence in Printmaking (2003) -Doris H. and Raymond L. Markley Art Enhancement Scholarship - presented for excellence in Painting (2002) 

Artist's Statement

I find that the process of linoleum block printing always results in interesting, bold, and subtly dark images. Because of this, it has become my medium of choice. Whether they be black/white or accented with color, my works show my love of detail and storytelling. I enjoy looking at and making art that the viewer has to examine closely and that brings us back to a childlike state of awe and wonder.