We all know that this generation is extremely attached to the concept of restore and reclaim. They often come in the form of start-ups to rediscover things like 'even better' tasting organic tea, burgers with unlikely but seemingly worthwhile toppings; meet-up groups dedicated to reconstruction and customising, all efforts to claim ownership of 'our thing'. But every now and then I come across something old school, not revived, changed or reproduced. Just as it is, and that's nice. I can only think to compare it to a family business. The same thing is done over and over again, for years. When it's done right, it doesn’t lose its authenticity or relevance. It just gets better. 
Funny (or maybe not!), there is something charming in the constant. Having something with a trait that is reliable and unchanging in nature - even the rarity of such a thing is attractive. These days, the urgency to change everything can be exhausting. I like looking out for things that stand the test of time - it sounds mushy but it is true - I believe that some things improve with age and do not require tweaks to make it 'even better'. Screen printing is one of those things. I think the appeal lies in its nostalgic quality, of what once was and is. Take a trip to Jealous Gallery, N8 and have a look at screen prints by incredible artists like Simon Stephenson, Ben Allen and Cristina Guitian and see if you agree.   
I met Erica Donavan last year,  she makes screen prints that are layered, intricate and youthful - basically, everything that catches the eye and yet you're not quite sure why. Her laid-back, friendliness spills out onto her work, which is fun and each encourages dialogue. Screen printing became massively popular in the 60s with the likes of Andy Warhol and his unforgettable Marilyn pop-coloured images. The same physical method is still used for making many posters, t-shirts and cards. In a nutshell, the value of screen printing is still as effective and it hasn't been put through a makeover. Erica is an artist doing her own thing with an oldie but goodie approach.


What made you go into printing?

I grew up in a little village in East Sussex and went to school in Tunbridge Wells. After completing my Art Foundation in Brighton I went to study Graphic Design in Bath. It was whilst at University that I started to spend a lot of time in the print room and fell in love with the physicality of making work in that way. A little while after university I began working at a screen-printing company which produced screen-printed works for other artists and designers and I also completed a part-time MA in fine-art printmaking at the same time. A couple of years ago I set out on my own to pursue my own artistic practice further and concentrate on a wider range of projects.

Best job so far?

I don’t think I could pinpoint a favourite job but it has been great to work with many artists on some fantastic projects. I am really enjoying working on a wide variety of projects at the moment. Last year I had an artist commission in Venice as part of the Biennale which was fantastic but equally, I have enjoyed working with a variety of people facilitating screen-printing workshops.


How did Heal's job come about?

I was contacted by one of the buyers at Heal's as they were looking for Christmas ranges to sell. They had seen my prints on another website and were approaching a few artists and designers. I had about a week to come up with some designs and make physical samples to show them before they placed an order. I designed and produced a range of Christmas cards and wrapping paper for Heals this Christmas which was all hand-printed and packaged in the studio. Most work generally comes about from people seeing my work in other places such as exhibitions or online.


Describe your typical day?

On a regular day, I wake up around 7:30 or 8:00 am. I normally get dressed and head straight to the studio where I have breakfast, check emails and get ready for the day. I live in Stoke Newington and my studio is in Wood Green so I normally hop on the 67 bus which takes me straight there. I share a studio with my partner, Matthew, who is an illustrator. We have been in the space for three years now. We work separately but it is great to have a valued opinion when you need one and someone to share cups of tea and cake with. No two days are the same really but if I am printing then I will need to make screens, mix colours and generally get everything ready. I am constantly amending and making new lists with orders of priority and things to do. Lunch varies from last night’s leftover dinner to toasted sandwiches and soup or we have a restaurant in our building and a great couple of cafes nearby. We have a fridge and a microwave in the studio so the world is our oyster! Unless I have to finish something for the morning I will try and leave the studio by 7-ish but it really depends on what I am working on. When I get home I usually cook something for dinner and then will often sit down and catch up on the many box-sets that we are working through. Other than that, I enjoy going to the cinema or catching up with friends. On a normal day, I try to be in bed by midnight but it really depends on what is on the agenda for the next day.

Erica will be running screen printing workshops later in the year. For more information email: info@ericadonovan.co.uk to be added to the mailing list. @EricasPrintShop 

This was written in January 2014