Nightwave Prints

Nightwave Prints is a one-woman block printing operation based in South East Michigan. Sepi Shokri is the master printmaker behind the enterprise, predominantly producing prints onto fabric including thrifted clothing, totes, and bandanas. Having originally started out printing on paper (prints, notebooks, and cards), now 95% of Sepi’s print output is on textiles. She tells us; “Printing on textiles has been a more satisfying artistic process, and it has been really amazing seeing people out in my community with one of my pieces.” Her aim; to use her art as a means of fundraising, which she is able to do the best of her ability thanks to the support of her patrons.

With no educational background in art, Sepi is entirely self-taught. She first purchased printmaking tools and materials back in 2013, however she didn’t touch them until January 2021 due to “imposter syndrome”. After trying block printing for the first time, she immediately fell in love, and her previous hobbies have now fallen to the wayside. Sepi comments; “I owe a lot to Emil Underbjerg and his YouTube videos – watching him carve was deeply inspiring to me. His openness about his struggles brought me peace in moments of my own struggles.” 

“I believe very strongly that art is for everyone – you don’t need any sort of degree or formal training to bring something joyful into the world. I’ve shared my entire process, tools, etc. with folks while vending at markets because I just want to see more art. Art, more art.”

Sepi describes her approach to her printmaking practice as “very DIY”. She is learning as she goes; a path which she finds “extremely humbling”. Carving has become her meditation, allowing her to process anxiety, depression, thoughts, and feelings. Typically, her prints begin with a “silly idea”, and months will lapse between her drawing of it, the prepping of blocks, and the printing itself. Sepi states; “It’s a struggle with ADHD and nervousness that it won’t be received well. I am constantly reminded that I create art for MYSELF, and anyone else who likes it is an added bonus.” All of her prints are made from her little studio in her basement, which she is currently in the process of building out so it’s cosier and better organised.

The biggest inspirations for her work are human experiences. Sepi says; “From an outside perspective, it might be difficult to find a theme in my work, because I AM the theme. Mental health, music, nature, and global solidarity are a few of my inspirations. I don’t confine myself to rules or themes, for me it’s about injecting my thoughts and feelings into my work.” However, some might say there IS a theme, and that that theme is fart-related. “I just think people need to lighten up about farts. Everybody does it and I love seeing people experience joy when they look through my work,” proclaims the printmaker.

Looking to the future, Sepi aims to hone her drawing skills, learn more about screen printing, develop a wood carving practice for one-of-a-kind pieces, and continue to expand upon the types of textiles she prints on to include wall hangings, table cloths, and tapestries. Having started teaching workshops this year, Sepi has found the experience incredibly rewarding, and is excited to continue connecting with more communities that struggle with access to the arts.

@nightwave.prints
www.nightwaveprints.com