Pasta machine prints gallery/demo at Prospect Heights Public Library, July 2

Terri Murphy is a children’s media illustrator who occasionally ventures off the beaten path to explore new art forms. In the ultimate upcycling adventure, she transformed an old pasta machine into a printing press and flattened and cut broth boxes into printing plates to create a unique series of prints.

After considerable experimentation with creating black and white prints, Murphy was eager to introduce color. She began to strategically glue pieces of handmade colored paper onto the printing sheet before inking the plate and running it through the pasta machine.

Years of illustrating children’s books have given Terri a deep appreciation for storytelling. The women portrayed in these prints are survivors of a dystopian society who have reclaimed their strength and purpose while still bearing the scars of their recent past. Each image offers only a glimpse of their journey, inviting viewers to imagine the stories behind the characters and interpret them in their own way.

Terri will demonstrate her unique pasta printing process from 6-7 p.m. on Thursday, July 2. Guests are invited to learn more about this inventive printmaking technique, ask questions, and enjoy complimentary refreshments. No registration necessary.

The Prospect Heights Public Library is at 12 N. Elm St. Prospect Heights.