Setsuko Piroche is another good friend and printmaking colleague who works in the Art Institute printmaking studio. Before coming to printmaking, Setsuko worked in a wide variety of media – paintings, ceramics, textile art and woven sculptures. She has had numerous solo shows (including at the Vancouver Art Gallery) and group exhibitions around the world, becoming especially well-known for her unique soft sculptures, such as these below.

Feather(left) and Morning Dew (right) – woven sculptures

Book cover: The Daughters of the Star from Thirty Indian Legends by Margaret Bemister.
Illustrated and translated into Japanese by Setsuko Piroche Hane

This is one of five childrens’ books she has illustrated; these ones were done first as collagraphs. Of the many printmaking techniques she uses, collagraphs are Setsuko’s favourite. I think that method of working really suits her whimsical portrayal of flora and fauna, circuses and toys.

Circus Memory – collagraph

In the Sky; etching

(Images are copyright Setsuko Piroche, used here with her permission.)

In 2000 Setsuko was one of twelve artists chosen to be part of the “Visions of the North Shore” Art and Heritage Millennium Project. Read about her project in the North Shore News.

If you are in the area, do come and see The Diverse Earth, Setsuko Piroche’s and Jean Morrison’s exhibition at the Capilano College (now University) Studio Art Gallery in North Vancouver, ending December 3rd.

Edited January 17th, 2013 to show larger images. Some links are no longer active.