09 Apr RISO Artist of the Month Karina Richardson
Meet RISO’s April Artist of the Month
What is your name and the name of your organization/location?
My name is Karina Richardson, I run Strange & Unusual Design, a community RISO studio in DTLA!
How long have you been in the art industry?
I have always known I was meant to be an artist, even from a very young age. I am very grateful that my parents fostered my drive to create and try new methods as I grew up.
How long have you been using RISO duplicators and the method of RISOGRAPHY?
I first learned about RISO about 12 years ago at my college but I didn’t get the chance to actually learn how to use a duplicator until around 3 years ago. I fell in love with the machine and have since become a licensed duplicator technician.
What are some of your favorite colors to use with a duplicator?
My big three these days are Aqua, Light Lime, and Steel!
Why RISOGRAPHY?
I love RISO for many reasons! I love that it gives you the tactile connection with your art the way silkscreen does but without the body pain the next day. I love that every print can be different and you can get some really happy accidents out of it that can inspire new works. I love that it’s energy star certified and the consumables are derived from rice so it’s a lot more environmentally friendly than some other methods I have used in the past. I also love the community that surrounds RISO! I have made so many wonderful friends in the short time I have been a part of this community and there is a real sense of “we all love this machine, let’s share tips and tricks!” that keeps RISO printing exciting even after years.
What would you tell people who are just finding out about RISO Duplicators and the art form of RISOGRAPHY?
My first suggestion would be to take some time to learn the mechanics of the machine! Being confident in the parts of the machine and what they do is going to drastically change how you print! Riso Duplicators are like horses, they can smell fear, confidence is key!
My second suggestion is to take as many color mixing risks as you possibly can. Some of my favorite combos are mixtures no one would have ever thought to put together.
Upcoming Events:
I teach 1 on 1, 2 on 1, and group workshops in my studio year ‘round, you can sign up for them at any time that works for you on my website!
I also host events in my studio from time to time- themed RISO parties where a big group of people can come and work on their files and do a 2 color print in a collaborative space, a exquisite corpse RISO party where everyone works on one layer and we print multiple layers together into collaborative pieces, and a coworking craft night where we all work on projects together in a relaxed and cozy vibe as just a few examples!
Website Links: