10/21/2026
We think it's about time for another Artist in Residence Feature! This week we're hearing from Maren Oates - former Schack employee, current Schack instructor, and Gel Printing Queen!
From the Artist:
I am Maren Oates, an artist based in the Seattle area working in collage and gel plate printmaking. Using a gelatin-like plate and acrylic paint, I create monoprints and monotypes without a press, embracing a process rooted in experimentation.
My printing tools are often discarded or overlooked objects—tape spools, bubble wrap, cardboard, vintage utensils, and forgotten toys. I use these materials to stamp, scrape or alter the painted surface of the gel plate, introducing unexpected marks and textures.
Even after thousands of pulls, the results still offer surprises as the marks created by these unconventional materials remain unpredictable, reinforcing a sense of discovery and play. My work aims to highlight the creative potential and visual richness embedded in everyday objects that might otherwise be ignored.
You can find Maren working in our Printmaking Studio throughout the week. Want to take a class from Maren? Checkout schack.org/printmkaing for the full list of classes!
