Hi, I’m Jane Martin—a linocut printmaker and artist in Laurel, Mississippi. If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re curious about my art practice. Or maybe you have a general interest in block printing, reduction linocuts, or the kinds of stories that get carved into paper by hand. Know that you’re in the right place.
I’m so glad you’re here. This blog has been a long time coming, and I’m excited to share more about how I make my work and why I keep doing it.
What I Do
My printmaking practice is now rooted in linocut and reduction techniques. I hand-carve every block and print each piece layer by layer, often working with bold colors, strong shapes, and themes that feel personal—Southern food, daily rituals, and homegrown culture.
Some pieces are deeply detailed and multi-layered, carved from one piece of linoleum, (what we call reduction prints), while others are simpler, more immediate designs under my brand Martin Spark Press. Both sides of my practice come from the same place—my hands, my carving tools, and a love for slowness and storytelling.
A few years ago, I never would’ve imagined I’d be carving art for a living. My art journey has gone through several chapters, but the minute I picked up my first carving tool, something clicked. That’s what led me here.
What You’ll Find on This Blog
This space will be a mix of:
• Process breakdowns – how a linocut is made, from sketch to final pull
• Studio insights – favorite tools, carving tips, ink choices, print fails and wins
• Stories behind the art – how Southern culture shows up in my work
• Artist life – what it’s like preparing for events, teaching workshops, or printing on a deadline
• Educational posts – beginner-friendly guides for people curious about trying it themselves
Whether you’re a collector, a fellow printmaker, or someone who just loves watching art come to life layer by layer, there’s something here for you.
Why I’m Writing
I’ve been wanting to share more about the behind-the-scenes of my artwork—not just the final prints you see on my website or at events, but the thought, time, and handwork that goes into every stage. Writing about it helps me reflect, and I hope it helps others learn something new or feel connected to the process. Gatekeeping is not allowed in this safe space.
As an artist in Mississippi, I want to be able to teach others through my own experience and research. I’ve learned a lot through trial and error, and I know how helpful it can be to see someone else’s process laid out plainly—especially when you’re just getting started or trying something new.
This blog gives me a space to slow down and reflect on how I make my work and, what I’m learning. I hope it becomes a helpful resource for anyone curious about printmaking, whether you’re here to learn, collect, or just see what’s possible with a carving tool and a block of linoleum or rubber.
Stay Connected
If you’d like to stay in touch with me, you can:
• Sign up for my newsletter for early shop updates, show announcements, and fresh blog posts
• Browse my current artwork
• Fine me on social media
Thanks for being here. I hope this space grows into a place where we can connect over ink-stained hands, imperfect prints, and stories carved one layer at a time.