Meet the silkscreen printmaker behind Sugar Pop Press!

Tell us a little about yourself!

Greetings! My name is Leslie, and I am an Appalachian silkscreen printmaker working under the moniker Sugar Pop Press. I print out of my home studio currently located in Morgantown, West Virginia.

What drew you to your craft?

I have always had the impulse to create. My school years were filled with reprimands from my teachers for drawing in the margins of my schoolwork. When I discovered printmaking at WVU, I knew I had found my calling. I love drawing for screenprints. The way you must think about each layer and allow it to play peekaboo with the other colors is creative problem-solving at its best… and most colorful.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

I always knew I wanted to be an artist, and I'm grateful to be living that dream.

How would you describe your creative process?

I have a tiny print space located in my small home. But I was raised to be able to do a lot with a little. I use a DIY setup, including a print station comprising two hinge clamps drilled into a wooden board. Each print is hand-pulled one color at a time. Once I print the first color layer, I switch my screen to the next. This process continues until a finished image emerges.

What advice would you give yourself 10 years ago?

My advice to my younger self would be to say yes to opportunities as often as possible, keep showing up, and keep printing.

Why is it important to support local artists and makers?

Local artists and makers help build a community's culture and identity. Go visit a town that has no art representation. You can feel the absence. Without art, places often feel empty. Art helps us connect to each other and the world around us. Supporting local businesses of all types, especially creative enterprises, is a precious gift we give ourselves and the places we call home.

Why do you love doing what you do?

Creating art is a source of peace and positivity for me. I love it as much as I need it. I would be making art even if no one ever saw it. I am fortunate to have a passion that I can share with others.

What advice do you have for other makers who want to start their own business?

Get engaged with local events and makers. Every opportunity you show up to will lead to another. Pave your path forward that way, one opportunity at a time. It takes time and a lot of effort, but if you want it, you can do it.

You can find Leslie’s stunning silkscreen prints in the shop!