IMMEDIATE RELEASE:11/29/2005 CONTACT: Gloria Maya 538-6515

Silver City-Western New Mexico University’s Expressive Arts Department is proud to announce the acquisition of a new etching press. The press was acquired through the lobbying efforts of the Associated Students of Western New Mexico University student government.

Kristen Wilson, a second year student senator and Senate President Pro Tempore, was highly involved in the lobbying efforts, which rewarded the Expressive Arts Department with $148,000. Wilson participates in various committees, which include Lobbying and Grants, Web PMT and Student Fees. Wilson believes that “It’s always important that students have up-to-date equipment.”

ASWNMU student government received over $300,000 for their entire legislative platform. The money was then dispersed to multiple departments throughout the university.

Gloria Maya, WNMU Art Professor and head of non-toxic printmaking, purchased the etching press for $14,000 from the visual arts portion of the lobbied monies for the Expressive Arts department. The etching press is the principle equipment for printing copper metal plates that require heavy pressure in order that the image on the plate transfers every detailed mark to the sheet of printmaking paper. This particular model purchased, meets new specifications in line with non-toxic printmaking processes.

With the new etching press, the Expressive Arts Department has the ability to add a more sophisticated level to its current non-toxic printmaking program. The press will allow students to train technically as master printers and add collaborative experience by working with artists throughout the community. Professor Maya also explained that a new class may be created this summer called Monotype Printmaking, since this particular press model is the appropriate type.

Maya states, “We are very grateful to Ms. Wilson, Governor Richardson and to the chain of events that ultimately led to the acquisition of this etching press now happily ensconced in the printmaking studio.”

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From left, next to press: Kristen Wilson, Professor Maya, Ro Begay holding printmaking image
Back left side to back of press: Carolynne Whitefeather, visiting printmaking instructor, Tiffany Bass, Curtis Dinwiddie, Shalyn Bryant, David Brinker, Krisann Ogas, Crisslandria Mike, Casey Mike
Back row right to front: Karlie Kie, Maxine Begay, Motivenda Melchizedek, Linda Sagen.