Rachel Mentzer is a printmaker whose work explores the intersection of urban landscapes and the natural world through collagraph and intaglio techniques. She constructs printing plates from recycled and found materials, including iHealth COVID-19 test boxes and textured papers. Layers of cardboard are carved away to reveal the negative image, transforming it into a functional printing plate. Once sealed, the plate’s cavities hold ink for intaglio printing with an etching press, often incorporating chine collé for added texture and depth.

Experimentation is central to her practice. By adjusting ink application, pressure, and materials, she explores variations in tone, contrast, and composition. The printmaking process introduces unexpected textures and marks, which become integral to the final image. Her compositions often depict elements of city infrastructure alongside organic forms, reflecting patterns and rhythms observed in everyday environments. Mentzer’s work has been exhibited throughout Ohio and recognized with numerous awards. She continues to refine her practice through process-driven exploration, expanding the technical and material potential of printmaking.