Miryssa Claypoole

print made with relief

Printmaking Magic

In Professor Higgs' beginner printmaking class, I created a unique print using a press, black ink, and a touch of extender. By incorporating a masking layer and pulling a ghost print, I achieved a striking layered effect that adds depth and texture to the piece. The process was a fun exploration of technique, leaving behind an unexpected yet awesome result.

crab print made with relief

Layers of Creativity

Another print from Professor Higgs’ class explores layering colors, masking layers, and stencils to create a bold and dynamic composition. Each layer adds depth, making every print unique in its own way. With multiple variations, each piece carries its own character, making it hard to choose a favorite. The unpredictability of the process is what makes printmaking so exciting—every pull of the press reveals something new.

Keepsake Bears

Each of these bears is lovingly handmade from a shirt that once belonged to someone dearly missed, who tragically passed away in a car accident. Using fabric that holds deep sentimental value, I crafted a custom bear pattern from scratch to honor their memory in a meaningful and personal way. To preserve and share the design, I also created a digital version of the pattern using Adobe Illustrator, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern tools. These bears are more than keepsakes. They are tangible pieces of love, remembrance, and comfort, stitched together with care and intention.

The Forest Guardian

In my 3D art class, I created one of my favorite pieces—a beautifully crafted skull sculpture using wire, paper, adhesives, and paper mache. For the antlers, which are the focal point of the piece, I thinned down a thick paper mache paste so it could flow smoothly through a cake decorating piping bag. This allowed me to apply intricate, raised designs with precision, adding texture and visual interest. I painted the antlers a rich brown to give them an earthy, natural feel. To enhance the organic look, I wove hemp string along the nose and incorporated small details that gave the piece a raw, nature-inspired aesthetic. It was a rewarding and memorable project that really pushed my creativity.

Wedding Bar Sign

For my friend’s saloon-themed wedding, I crafted a custom wooden sign using a leftover piece of quality wood we had on hand. We routered the edges to give it a polished—but still rustic—look, then treated it with linseed oil for a rich, natural finish. I designed the lettering on my computer and used my cutting machine to create a stencil, which I then used to burn the text into the wood. With everyone dressed as cowboys and saloon girls, it fit perfectly at the makeshift bar by the photo booth. Now, the sign lives on as a fun centerpiece in her home bar, full of great memories.

Built to Create - Let's Work Together!

Ready to bring your ideas to life? Whether you're launching a new project, refreshing your brand, or diving into something completely unique, I'm here to help make it happen. Let’s combine your vision with my creativity to create something amazing. Together, we can turn your dreams into tangible, beautiful results!