Artist Profile: Nan Onkka

Grand Marais-based printmaker Nan Onkka specializes in woodcut printmaking. She finds inspiration for her designs in the picturesque landscape of northern Minnesota, which includes the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

“Most of my inspiration just comes from being outside. Going for a walk or going into the Boundary Waters,” Onkka said.

She describes printmaking as a genre of visual art. “I’m really fascinated with trying to capture a certain moment. And often that is a moment in my memory, a special place that I’ve been with someone.”

“I’m really feel drawn to color and pattern and texture,” she said. “I think that printmaking makes me take a really complicated image or feeling and simplify it.”

WTIP visited Nan Onkka at her home studio to learn about her craft and the inspiration for her work coming from the landscape of our region.

Watch the video below produced by M Baxley or listen to the full feature via SoundCloud below.

Kalli Hawkins March 1, 2024