Artist Spotlight
Brandie Dziegiel
Dziegiel is a Florida-based artist and proprietor of Jar Fly Studio. She has participated in BIG INK at the Morean Arts Center and the Atlantic Center for the Arts.
Life In the Arts
I grew up as a military brat, relocating across the United States more than a dozen times. I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember, filling sketchbooks with comic book-inspired characters and nature-themed imagery. Much of the artwork I created during my childhood was influenced by my environment, particularly during my formative years in Florida. After serving in the Coast Guard and earning my Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from the University of Maine, I established Jar Fly Studio LLC in Panama City, FL.
Printmaking and Process
I was introduced to linocut and silkscreen processes while in high school. Then, woodcut printing in undergrad. The physicality of carving wood expanded my understanding and appreciation for relief printing. Previously, I would destroy many unfinished works, but printmaking rooted me in a process. Completing a carving requires decisiveness in decision-making and a commitment to move forward.
BIG INK
I participated in BIG INK for the first time in 2019 at the Morean Arts Center. My goal for the workshop was to work on a larger scale, so I carved a 40″ x 70″ woodblock titled Swamp Totem. Previously, my most significant piece measured 24″ x 36″, so the opportunity to expand was enticing. My second BIG INK was at the Atlantic Center for the Arts, where I focused on exploring how positive and negative space can create a dynamic design. The resulting print, which measures 40″ x 48″, is titled Sentinel of the Longleaf.
Printmakers who have experience in academic print studio environments understand the challenges of large-scale printing. I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to print on the Big Tuna press. The highlight of each event for me was meeting and collaborating with artists from diverse backgrounds.
The Carving Journey
Since I’ve been carving for nearly a decade, I’ve become rather particular about the matrix I’m carving on. Quality matters! Nothing is more frustrating than cutting into a deep pocket of wood glue underneath the veneer layer on a piece of plywood. Despite navigating the hidden imperfections, I find that carving the fine details and seeing them come to life when the prints are pulled is incredibly satisfying.
The Meetup & Printing Together
Both workshops were incredible. Each was inviting and accessible—ideal for all the love BIG INK brings to the community. The Morean Arts Center is situated in the heart of downtown, drawing hundreds of visitors to the event. Atlantic Center for the Arts Downtown Harris House was a quaint and intimate setting that allowed for more one-on-one dialogue.
Visitors who came to watch us print were incredibly supportive and inquisitive. I was so impressed by the wealth of knowledge and experience of the other participating artists. The camaraderie we formed was palpable and exciting. We worked together in sync like a well-oiled machine, which was only possible thanks to Lyell’s incredible guidance and leadership.
The Final Print & What’s Next
I’m very pleased with each of my final prints. There were a few design elements I wanted to tweak from the first print, which I took into account the second time around. Thanks to the preparation guidance outlined in the resources provided by Lyell, I was equipped to meticulously plan and execute the prints as I had envisioned them. However, nothing prepares you to see it finally “pulled”—that part is always priceless, which is why I will continue to carve—BIG and small.
On The Horizon
My show, Ecology and Printmaking, was recently on display at the Panama City Publishing Museum in Panama City, FL. I am also learning the process of letterpress and combining it with linocut. Recently, I was accepted to the Master of Fine Arts program at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA. I will be starting the interdisciplinary program in Fall 2025.
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