https://www.milissaorzolek.com/gipfel daily 0.75 2026-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1729278380120-05RW819030WE1S69JMFM/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - marigold marigold. 2024 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1713909408582-NCBHYSBL94W4MP7Y16QI/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - Dad Created for my dad’s 80th birthday. Black paper cut on white paper with watercolors. 2024. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1729278380120-05RW819030WE1S69JMFM/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - marigold marigold. 2024 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1746040916056-0P6JOL7YW75ZAN3V50HB/forest.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - forest a commission. 2025. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1746040812166-C4NKCBEHQW4NDRQ15C4X/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - leonie & tim a wedding gift commission. 2024. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1713909740386-RZB15XW8N5RAYQ9HM088/IMG_3939.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - Dad Created for my dad’s 80th birthday. Black paper cut on white paper with watercolors. 2024. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1651000518013-48R69PNU0PBGP6IFWQVH/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - who gets to breath? (cancer alley edition) Paper cut of a photograph taken along River Road in St. John’s Parish, also know as cancer alley. Spilt the paper cut into four to mimic the view out of a window and added a pair of human lungs. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1692316160423-UXMHQRI0YLRA0WPT8V1M/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - olivia A paper cut of my niece. Cut black paper backed by white and brown paper. 2023. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1703871332524-KHW1EQEAOD9UB5MCBZXK/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - Coco Puff as Sherlock Holmes Paper cut with watercolor created as a tribute to a great cat that passed away this year. 2023. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1701999319130-1E0VZS8WSOX03O6OPARD/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - Jae with dragon puppet Paper cut with water colors. 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1682467805841-2CAXMYHO0OVVVIKSN4JT/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - Candra & Greg A birthday commission. 2023. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1672782023013-Q31SN0Z95E6KY7JKA6SH/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - sisters Paper cut for my younger sister of the two of us. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1701999478674-KAF0T7ZWXU3YCR64R9EW/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - tango For a friend. 2023. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1701999263752-C198PYH29HMFHELCTA7E/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - cat boss For a friend. 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668133151423-PMJJ3W1HID6L61I6PPU3/metal+ox+self+portrait+2021.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - year of the metal ox self portrait paper cut self portrait. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668132317050-9SBOKRFMP8CM5KUVWRW7/IMG_1121.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - jason & alicia a paper cut commission for a friend. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668132053850-2S4II7WV2J9T60HC3R9F/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - margaret & eli a pape rcut of the couple for a wedding gift. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1647365515581-WV6I62OK37GM5C25K2FU/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - change requires active participation Paper cut started in frustration in 2021 and finished in frustration 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579309059712-F1PAILCZFKTS2VTR3U5K/metal+rat+II.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - year of the metal rat Annual screen printing project celebrating the Chinese zodiac. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1641868929099-ZB4ZWURZI7T1QTSW0XMB/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - baby billy A paper cut commission for a friend. For this project, I experimented with adding colored tissue paper for background. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1641868816586-Y9P0IWC73O01SO0STO4F/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - mother and daughter A paper cut commission for a friend. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1641868598128-QT10CRQVUZHJT8XOR3SX/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - father and son A paper cut commission for a friend. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668132488276-6969A63DU1K763LYADA4/IMG_0706.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - female scarlet tanager a paper cut for a friend. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1630945618616-KD6IRS38ZSEERBEWY2RA/IMG_0492.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - swallows Paper cut of swallows feeding. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1630945799482-5U9LQEY4TSBIUH4RX8WQ/claire+commission.jpg screen prints & paper cuts - generations Paper cut of grandmother and her granddaughters. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1626900535232-653AO8RNC5OIV3KQBW6S/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - nieces Paper cut of my nieces for my sister’s birthday. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1628641773402-F4CHN33FVCGQTWIEVTEX/aunt+helene.jpg screen prints & paper cuts - aunt helene My mom commissioned me to create a paper cut of the photo that ran in the newspaper for my aunt’s wedding announcement. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1702000140704-13YNZE9YZC5JY6BGVKFV/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - Lily's sister Commission for a friend. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1622350100277-EP26YJB5KJX3MQSY7XKF/mom+%26+grandmere.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - mom & grandmere A papercut for my mom’s 75th birthday. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579308984182-BAYI1V8Z1O6MKFUWY7SY/metal%2Brat%2BII.jpg screen prints & paper cuts - year of the metal rat 2020 my annual screen printing project celebrating the Chinese zodiac https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1614360300795-Y284WVZ4J708OJDJJ61R/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - Fritz, el barco, y los nietos Commissioned papercut. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1611250027130-72UUVWSG7EBV2QLLMBKJ/Erin+papercut.jpg screen prints & paper cuts - Erin Papercut of my younger sister. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1611249652566-X6X0GB6BHJ518AFS10QI/maddy+%26+songa+mounted.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - Maddy & Songa A papercut commission. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1578970882658-SKYX0OO0G0JVDD80R4OK/there%2Bis%2Bbeauty%2Bin%2Bdissent.jpg screen prints & paper cuts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1588697427276-ZW9HUUHE5DZ9NHW4UAYG/DSC_1858+1.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - self portrait Documentation during the COVID-19 pandemic. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585250511191-BUMKERAZR7XLAQPTKMF1/washing.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - washing = maintenance = care A papercut inspired by the beginning of my shelter-in-place in a sublet in New Orleans. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1578536512074-FGCL38E389PS8INCYBSP/the+kiss.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - the kiss To celebrate my parents’ 50th anniversary, I went through their wedding album and chose a few photos to turn into paper cuts. 2019. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1578537712638-SIBA9G2T4WPOK4WGO5IV/66.jpg screen prints & paper cuts - outshined paper cut. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579308811490-KR0HEV25KIF05DUWFYPV/there+is+beauty+in+dissent.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - there is beauty in dissent Created in response to 45’s administration. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1611614266693-W4JAR2EPQGOLPIZX3K79/year+of+the+metal+ox+2021.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - Year of the Metal Ox Annual screen printing project to celebrate the Chinese New Year. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1588261255128-47LY9IQ268W426D5GVC6/together+resistance+can+be+mighty.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - together resistance can be mighty Created in response to 45’s administration. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1631044022738-D3FKR3KJVUQ41NLQOD8D/ask+questions.JPG screen prints & paper cuts - ask questions Created in response to 45’s administration. silk screen. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1611249545052-90D4TDWQ75V3Y2D0C95R/IMG_0696.jpg screen prints & paper cuts https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1631044140295-LG14VFOHVVHCJ20GCXRG/question+authority.jpg screen prints & paper cuts - question authority Created in response to 45’s administration. silk screen. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1723050414416-OUYA28MRYD8V1IP8R06V/image-asset.jpeg screen prints & paper cuts - stand up, stand tall, stand together Created in response to 45's administration. 2017. https://www.milissaorzolek.com/schwane daily 0.75 2026-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1580500375868-2NG9VE2BCV0LT60U6NWB/old+rubarb.jpg stories - audio & visual - audio enthusiast I love radio and podcasts. I often record interviews with friends and acquaintances telling stories. Listen to a piece I created for the Third Coast International Audio Festival's Short Docs Challenge all the way back in 2010. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1580500375868-2NG9VE2BCV0LT60U6NWB/old+rubarb.jpg stories - audio & visual - audio enthusiast I love radio and podcasts. I often record interviews with friends and acquaintances telling stories. Listen to a piece I created for the Third Coast International Audio Festival's Short Docs Challenge all the way back in 2010. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579574536856-V0BOCAO0JSH05G5O9KVV/image-asset.jpeg stories - audio & visual - Medusa Medusa is a graphic novel that tells the story of Egg Yolk, a curious jellyfish who wonders where his fish and crab friends go when they get lifted out of the water by a net. The story of Egg Yolk and his friends Turrit and Medusa is fictitious, but the narrative is intertwined with interludes that explain scientific concepts such as blooms and marine-life hitchhikers. These interludes are placed strategically throughout the story, so that questions are answered as soon as they might arise in the reader's mind. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579661860655-ENSY7ZBYJVDRKY8BXA8I/image-asset.jpeg stories - audio & visual - Trash Island Medusa is a collaboration with Kacy McKinney. Together, we are She Was Solitary. In 2018, we published Trash Island. Currently, we are working on a project about rabbits and bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1605300278650-QF6HLR2ZOZT01B325VVO/R%26BII+p11.jpg stories - audio & visual - rabbits & bees (1 & 2) Last year, she was solitary published rabbits & bees 1. We recently finished part II - page 11 is pictured above - and are eager to start publishing and printing it as soon as pandemic times ease up. https://www.milissaorzolek.com/maritime daily 0.75 2026-02-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1771119869573-YG61YY50O9NZ93NB7IV8/image-asset.jpeg collaborations - beastie boys at bonnaroo 2009 A collaboration with Alexis Erkert to create a participatory dinner and experimental show in the great hall of her house. A close look at the transformational power of art through the lens of the final Beastie Boys concert in 2009 at Bonnaroo led us through a conversation about data centers and generative artificial intelligence, the mutuality of figs and figs wasp and the ongoing genocide in Palestine. 2025. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1771119869573-YG61YY50O9NZ93NB7IV8/image-asset.jpeg collaborations - beastie boys at bonnaroo 2009 A collaboration with Alexis Erkert to create a participatory dinner and experimental show in the great hall of her house. A close look at the transformational power of art through the lens of the final Beastie Boys concert in 2009 at Bonnaroo led us through a conversation about data centers and generative artificial intelligence, the mutuality of figs and figs wasp and the ongoing genocide in Palestine. 2025. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1724276665605-EAJK17NLHA9SF30QYWF6/image-asset.jpeg collaborations - Our Love of Diagramming Sentences A collaboration with Alexis Erkert to create a participatory dinner and experimental show in the great hall of her house. All guests were invited to participate in the experimental show as diagramming the sentence "Why did the chicken cross the road?" led to a shadow puppet show about a planet on fire, a discussion of Iberian orcas and three collective breaths. 2024. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1706200466446-1SP2H6OVFS9POQFCXG49/image-asset.jpeg collaborations - Aki the pelican A giant collaborative puppet created during La Liga Teatro Elástico’s bamboo workshop at the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival. Team members: Salt, Anni and Emory. Photo by Detroit Puppet Company. 2024. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585249958540-T1WJJ5JZ03LVLB1KCR8W/thumbnail.jpg collaborations - drawing collaborations Artist Catherine Nelson and I have had an ongoing drawing collaboration for the past five years. Pictured is a drawing that was passed back and forth in the mail over a series of months with the instruction: pay attention to what this drawing needs. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1605237370892-28UD79ZC72HHE6VY4A3B/IMG-6012.jpg collaborations - Girl Stefanie Loeb and I created a shadow puppet crankie for the re-release of Leyla McCalla’s “Girl”. Filmed by Ben Depp and with a puppet assist by Phoebe Vlassis. Photo by Stefanie Loeb. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1692392732468-UGP5DSVOXTW5DK9SHXE8/image-asset.jpeg collaborations - Tornado and the talent contest A short collaborative piece created as Ginger Ryan taught me stop motion animation. 2018. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1622349685200-0ESID2JYMM6653GUUH53/brought+to+light.jpg collaborations - brought to light Brought to Light is a collaboration with journalist Natalie Yahr in which we create shadow puppet shows to accompany true stories. In the pilot story of what we hope will be an ongoing series, Alejandro Salazar speaks to the often-misunderstood role of reconstruction workers and shows how they might also be slightly reshaping people's hearts. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585674418187-1EEKJ2AR4O7BYDI5KKVO/rubarb17-9718.jpg collaborations - RUBARB fundraiser puppet shows Every year I created a bicycle-themed puppet show for RUBARB, a youth-focused, community bike shop in the Upper 9th Ward of New Orleans. The show pictured above is from The Anatomy of a Volunteer. Photo by Nico Krebil. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1580590106980-CJFAA3Q33EU5TJJDUK6P/image-asset.jpeg collaborations - picnic Created in collaboration with Jess Pinkham for the opening day of Country Day Creative Arts summer camp. (If you look closely, you can find an ant climbing up the tree and a fly in the branches.) Photo by Jess Pinkham. 2016. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1587652566404-F4TJFNC0NA6AMO4252G5/maude+bw.jpg collaborations - tiny rants A series of short, one-puppet monologues created in collaboration with Phoebe Vlassis for a specially created one-person audience theater. Commissioned by Antenna Gallery for presentation during the I AM AN IMPORTANT GIANT exhibition. In this photo we see Maude, a puppet created by Phoebe and the star of the show. 2016. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1580590250072-8OZ21RP2JP8RMI379OMJ/image-asset.jpeg collaborations - shadow puppet show Created with Whitney Raynor, Josie Scanlon, young artists from Grand Rue, and an all female youth puppeteer troupe, this shadow puppet show debuted at the 4th Ghetto Biennale in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The screen was made from all used materials and the shadow puppets were made from old tires. 2015. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1588091748719-JWLEQJOGRXDYRWTOQ01Q/Belong+screenshot.jpg collaborations - Belong A collaboration with the band Hestina to make a shadow puppet video for their song Belong. Click here to see the full video. Photo by Greg Tilton. 2015. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1588092731089-VSS3VV054S771OMZE8ZK/the+swamp+lilies+%26+their+puppets_1.JPG collaborations - The Swamp Lilies A collaboration with the band The Swamp Lilies for a performance in the Sculpture Garden at the New Orleans Museum of Art. 2013. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1580693533329-4KVCVEQRFLMZDPBYBNEA/15.+cardboard+mountain+entrance_Orzolek.jpg collaborations - cardboard mountain Co-created this giant, indoor, interactive play structure made completely from cardboard for Newman Summer Day Camp. Pictured is the Dr. Seuss-inspired entrance. 2013. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1580693302668-W5Z1C5FHCR149E8KYNQB/image-asset.jpeg collaborations - ice columns 15 ft tall ice towers created with cardboard and scaffolding for the Pearl Assemby, a puppet production by Skookum Heebee Tumtum Productions. 2012. https://www.milissaorzolek.com/experiments daily 0.75 2026-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1619644248132-RM19OIWPZKHI0HCRGEQJ/image-asset.jpeg experiments - walking home A kinetic sculpture made with materials from the waste streams in Moab as part of my re-use residency. Inspired by a conversation with a land steward at a community storytelling workshop where we talked about home and belonging and waste and disposability. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1619644248132-RM19OIWPZKHI0HCRGEQJ/image-asset.jpeg experiments - walking home A kinetic sculpture made with materials from the waste streams in Moab as part of my re-use residency. Inspired by a conversation with a land steward at a community storytelling workshop where we talked about home and belonging and waste and disposability. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1691615910352-WCKF8X8IBVTB80LJK4RQ/image-asset.jpeg experiments - gato Created for Skewer Gallery’s open call for DRAW. Two puppets, inspired by my time working with Wayne White, are surprised and frustrated when their game of tic-tac-toe ends in a draw, aka cat’s game. Cat shadow puppet illuminates behind the playing board by a button on top of the box. 2014. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1703872514248-L3MEPER5UFR85Y5WRP1J/IMG_3528.JPG experiments - stencil My long-time collaborator asked me to create a stencil from one of her drawings. Made from card stock coated with paper tape. 2023. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668559821305-86JR1T2BSJRLWRAC6KO5/sumi+ink+and+brush.jpg experiments - sumi ink and brush experiments using a brush with sum ink. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668560569148-1EO5MAJ6P7TCD2TK166M/loon+block+print.JPG experiments - the loons An experiment with foam block carving and printing. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668558345719-TJRPYFBT9AB1XNQPY5BF/burnished+clay+bowls.jpg experiments - burnished clay bowls one white and one red stoneware bowl with the outside burnished and the inside glazed. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1627420206259-ZDWZZGLPDLNO8HF72MT5/metal+ox+mask+and+horns.JPG experiments - metal ox mask and horns As I wanted to delivery my annual lunar new year print safely during the pandemic, I made a fabric mask to resemble a metal ox (2021 is the year of the metal ox) hiding in a bush. Photo by Stefanie Loeb. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1651000821619-3C5KUDELP15RM3S5E8VJ/image-asset.jpeg experiments - table top puppets (Judith Hope design) An exercise in creative memory. Took a table top person puppet workshop with Judith Hope with a friend. The workshop was online and we were only able to take notes. Five weeks later, we deciphered those notes and built the puppets above! 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1645047262130-2OZEPAKKTQJAX85ER1EP/image-asset.jpeg experiments - egg yolk headpiece A headpiece created for a member walking with Egg Yolk Jubilee during carnival in New Orleans 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1644957729767-QNELSROENQ7095HV8CA7/image-asset.jpeg experiments - water tiger mask Mask and costume worn as I delivered Lunar New Year cards to friends in town. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1627421186200-DWXVVZXOYG2RJB1G6KT0/IMG_0487.JPG experiments - indigo An experiment using an indigo vat dye and soy paste as a resist. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1619644473737-9A3Z292WOT2VDFU8404R/image-asset.jpeg experiments - runoff Created from materials in the Moab waste streams (thrift store, recycling center, landfill), runoff was inspired by another community storytelling workshop where we talked about home, belonging, disposability and waste. This group talked about how we treat both land and people as disposable and it was during this conversation that I first learned about the Moab pile, uranium trailings that threaten the Colorado River. (It is currently and slowly being moved north by train.) 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1589904627449-RTFIE62Z7Q6M7ZRA3JZG/cloth+pouch.jpg experiments - cloth tool pouch An attempt to use fabric scrap to make something utilitarian. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585675450988-5LMVTC0FOS5F7OOW0NHR/image-asset.jpeg experiments - tiny masks An experiment in casting multiples from a tiny mold. These masks were given away during Mardi Gras 2018. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585676489645-UCV6E0TO7362XJBLQ8OB/DSC05496+copy.JPG experiments - upholstery! Learned how to upholster and transformed a couple of bar stools for a friend’s house. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1691615453247-L8F01HWLN9YVHRW4QXJF/image-asset.jpeg experiments - Olivia's secret box A present for my niece. This long this box has a lid that slides and a middle section that swivels to reveal a bottom secret compartment. 2014. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585847693518-7NVB87QL4TA8SL26TSCH/horse+puzzle.jpg experiments - horse puzzle Started to make puzzles when my friend introduced me to his scroll saw. 2013. https://www.milissaorzolek.com/work daily 1.0 2026-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1741118411670-Z01TS9LPDAEWJOIJ6D2H/image-asset.jpeg work - polar bear This is the third vignette in the “how to read a storm” series. polar bear, based on the poem Polar bear by Tara Orzolek (my older sister), explores how climate anxiety seeps into our subconscious and influences the language of dreams. Photo by Claire Bangser. 2025. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/e1938083-e0b9-4eee-855a-6732ef946ad0/IMG_5317+2.jpg work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1771119869573-YG61YY50O9NZ93NB7IV8/IMG_5172.JPG work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/ec0b59db-f3ae-4724-8b9b-5ab2b804768c/2551404806440581725.jpg work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1729278380120-05RW819030WE1S69JMFM/IMG_4497.jpg work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585847693518-7NVB87QL4TA8SL26TSCH/horse+puzzle.jpg work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579574536856-V0BOCAO0JSH05G5O9KVV/image-asset.jpeg work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1768185162843-W1RH58X3XVXRCBJYK62W/image-asset.jpeg work - winter solstice balance built for winter solstice 2025, trying to figure out how to bring the world back into balance. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1741121522350-30RL7ZAW0XQFLUZ1ANOB/IMG_4645.JPG work - winter solstice curling plant Built for winter solstice 2024, this curling kinetic sculpture/puppet reminded us that it is ok to curl up and rest. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1707961707447-SWLZRVP98GI7RNWBYFY8/image-asset.jpeg work - wood dragon puppet Wood dragon head created to celebrate the Lunar New Year 2024. Created from all natural materials: reed, twine, copper wire, cotton yarn, glazed and flattened ceramic beads. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1703871198606-14CSCTZL6LE3Y34WM44E/full+body+kinectic+solstice+sculpture.JPG work - winter solstice pinwheels Technically a kinetic sculpture, this is my puppet for winter solstice 2023. I was happy to work with the wind to bring the puppet to life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1671750063614-2CXZ1DTCW8JFP8IODQBH/image-asset.jpeg work - a carousel of stars Built for winter solstice 2022, this is a hand-cranked carousel of five-pointed origami stars that sits upon the shoulders. Photo by Stefanie Loeb. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668133669401-WOK0QO18FT7CFYXY3GO9/scarf+marionette.jpg work - scarf marionette I build this scarf marionette in the style of Albrecht Roser with the help of Sarah Frechette. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1640918295390-XLFUXE7QAKSC4DD85NBG/image.jpg work - giraffe An experiment in building tall with natural materials: reed and twine, with a bit of copper wire. 2021. Photo by Jennifer Crawford https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1610940227347-EA2VGGM7DUJI4GOJEU9H/DSC_2307.JPG work - wooden woman Table top puppet carved from basswood. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1611248954319-FVCVSIA0L59QQHQ83671/DSC_2295.JPG work - cat A table top puppet created through a class taught by puppet maker Judith Hope. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579310722985-VBE661NWR3Q1ICAVQ1JN/image-asset.jpeg work - wedding puppets Created for my friends Will & Alisa and the puppet show about their relationship I performed at their wedding reception. 2019. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579310881732-CTCMCNQWOIXYOI7P4TTW/image-asset.jpeg work - hand puppet Created for He Waved, a show about miscommunication. 2018. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579310950349-6BXG76CAQRJGHREQWJO7/17.jpg work - rod puppet Created for He Waved, a show about miscommunication. Built using a Fedotov mechanism. 2018. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579311043125-JUBKFF769FIT4QNIF13F/6.+giant+bird_Orzolek.JPG work - giant bird Created for Mardi Gras 2018. This giant puppet is an experiment in using only natural and sustainable materials: cotton fabric, twine, wood, copper wire, reed, grape wood vine. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579571892599-DQBGF6EP8EWH0R6MRVZU/8.+How+to+Leave_Orzolek.jpg work - How to Leave A three-puppeteer puppet comprised of head, feet, and hands that grip. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579572027611-LFIH0G6FJ2XICADEICT1/10.+volunteer_Orzolek.jpg work - volunteer Giant puppet created out of folded newspapers and bicycle parts. Created for RUBARB Community Bike Shop’s annual fundraiser puppet show. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579573030260-JKJ7CQP3I9R8QT1CQR7O/elephant+in+front+of+yellow.JPG work - elephant Giant puppet with moving trunk. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1701998362765-9T0GOMN8EIDM1NNOG2IA/el+cirque+me+manque+from+io+fete.jpeg work - el cirque me manque A series of shadow puppets in a light box combining a friend’s favorite dive, the inward pike, with my longing for the circus for Io Fête at Corridor Studios in 2015. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1610939287363-UFJDUDBU51WQMTMWYBAQ/Draw.jpg work - draw A puppet installation about a tic-tac-toe game that ended in a cat’s game. 2014. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1631044230907-SY6R85TOPSRMK2DAUIVE/John_James_giraffe_09+copy.jpg work - john james giraffe The first puppet I ever built! 2011. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1771119869573-YG61YY50O9NZ93NB7IV8/image-asset.jpeg work - beastie boys at bonnaroo 2009 A collaboration with Alexis Erkert to create a participatory dinner and experimental show in the great hall of her house. A close look at the transformational power of art through the lens of the final Beastie Boys concert in 2009 at Bonnaroo led us through a conversation about data centers and generative artificial intelligence, the mutuality of figs and figs wasp and the ongoing genocide in Palestine. 2025. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1724276665605-EAJK17NLHA9SF30QYWF6/image-asset.jpeg work - Our Love of Diagramming Sentences A collaboration with Alexis Erkert to create a participatory dinner and experimental show in the great hall of her house. All guests were invited to participate in the experimental show as diagramming the sentence "Why did the chicken cross the road?" led to a shadow puppet show about a planet on fire, a discussion of Iberian orcas and three collective breaths. 2024. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1706200466446-1SP2H6OVFS9POQFCXG49/image-asset.jpeg work - Aki the pelican A giant collaborative puppet created during La Liga Teatro Elástico’s bamboo workshop at the Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival. Team members: Salt, Anni and Emory. Photo by Detroit Puppet Company. 2024. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585249958540-T1WJJ5JZ03LVLB1KCR8W/thumbnail.jpg work - drawing collaborations Artist Catherine Nelson and I have had an ongoing drawing collaboration for the past five years. Pictured is a drawing that was passed back and forth in the mail over a series of months with the instruction: pay attention to what this drawing needs. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1605237370892-28UD79ZC72HHE6VY4A3B/IMG-6012.jpg work - Girl Stefanie Loeb and I created a shadow puppet crankie for the re-release of Leyla McCalla’s “Girl”. Filmed by Ben Depp and with a puppet assist by Phoebe Vlassis. Photo by Stefanie Loeb. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1692392732468-UGP5DSVOXTW5DK9SHXE8/image-asset.jpeg work - Tornado and the talent contest A short collaborative piece created as Ginger Ryan taught me stop motion animation. 2018. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1622349685200-0ESID2JYMM6653GUUH53/brought+to+light.jpg work - brought to light Brought to Light is a collaboration with journalist Natalie Yahr in which we create shadow puppet shows to accompany true stories. In the pilot story of what we hope will be an ongoing series, Alejandro Salazar speaks to the often-misunderstood role of reconstruction workers and shows how they might also be slightly reshaping people's hearts. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585674418187-1EEKJ2AR4O7BYDI5KKVO/rubarb17-9718.jpg work - RUBARB fundraiser puppet shows Every year I created a bicycle-themed puppet show for RUBARB, a youth-focused, community bike shop in the Upper 9th Ward of New Orleans. The show pictured above is from The Anatomy of a Volunteer. Photo by Nico Krebil. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1580590106980-CJFAA3Q33EU5TJJDUK6P/image-asset.jpeg work - picnic Created in collaboration with Jess Pinkham for the opening day of Country Day Creative Arts summer camp. (If you look closely, you can find an ant climbing up the tree and a fly in the branches.) Photo by Jess Pinkham. 2016. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1587652566404-F4TJFNC0NA6AMO4252G5/maude+bw.jpg work - tiny rants A series of short, one-puppet monologues created in collaboration with Phoebe Vlassis for a specially created one-person audience theater. Commissioned by Antenna Gallery for presentation during the I AM AN IMPORTANT GIANT exhibition. In this photo we see Maude, a puppet created by Phoebe and the star of the show. 2016. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1580590250072-8OZ21RP2JP8RMI379OMJ/image-asset.jpeg work - shadow puppet show Created with Whitney Raynor, Josie Scanlon, young artists from Grand Rue, and an all female youth puppeteer troupe, this shadow puppet show debuted at the 4th Ghetto Biennale in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The screen was made from all used materials and the shadow puppets were made from old tires. 2015. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1588091748719-JWLEQJOGRXDYRWTOQ01Q/Belong+screenshot.jpg work - Belong A collaboration with the band Hestina to make a shadow puppet video for their song Belong. Click here to see the full video. Photo by Greg Tilton. 2015. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1588092731089-VSS3VV054S771OMZE8ZK/the+swamp+lilies+%26+their+puppets_1.JPG work - The Swamp Lilies A collaboration with the band The Swamp Lilies for a performance in the Sculpture Garden at the New Orleans Museum of Art. 2013. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1580693533329-4KVCVEQRFLMZDPBYBNEA/15.+cardboard+mountain+entrance_Orzolek.jpg work - cardboard mountain Co-created this giant, indoor, interactive play structure made completely from cardboard for Newman Summer Day Camp. Pictured is the Dr. Seuss-inspired entrance. 2013. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1580693302668-W5Z1C5FHCR149E8KYNQB/image-asset.jpeg work - ice columns 15 ft tall ice towers created with cardboard and scaffolding for the Pearl Assemby, a puppet production by Skookum Heebee Tumtum Productions. 2012. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1774054286666-5T62PIA9RAWOALS7QZKS/image-asset.jpeg work - year of the fire horse 2026 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1768183666050-X5XUXYGIEBFPZV9O3IHY/year+of+the+wood+snake.jpg work - year of the wood snake 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1707961543391-QLEGQ5RR8EN41CM80RC0/image-asset.jpeg work - year of the wood dragon 2024 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1674398764054-C9KSORGIF6PWW6ILJEHA/image-asset.jpeg work - year of the water rabbit 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1645047897679-D1C9N5G8OD0CZS4D4N9X/image-asset.jpeg work - year of the water tiger 2022 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234082252-OQBV7QY3C4AJEYS17KWO/image-asset.jpeg work - year of the metal ox 2021 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234194511-PTYTMETDIS1CXDATFM8I/metal+rat+II.JPG work - year of the metal rat 2020 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234230661-VLXXIU42GFBCVFUIGD2Y/earthpig.JPG work - year of the earth pig 2019 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234248722-FN5IL2WTB6A8FFW7VF59/year+of+the+earth+dog+2018.jpg work - year of the earth dog 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234290606-82H9FY9MTO4E0ODGDRHW/year+of+the+fire+rooster.jpg work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234297275-2Z49CVU7DB71Y480P8GE/year+of+the+fire+monkey.jpg work https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234301821-1M917IH3S81DYT4MGREL/year+of+the+wood+goat+2015.jpg work - year of the wood goat 2015 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234308483-PFRIG6OXWN0207ZPGF9Z/year+of+the+wood+horse+2014.jpg work - year of the wood horse 2014 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234316220-8KG27OWMTF879H7V9SV0/year+of+the+water+snake+2013.jpg work - year of the water snake 2013 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1729278380120-05RW819030WE1S69JMFM/image-asset.jpeg work - marigold marigold. 2024 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1746040916056-0P6JOL7YW75ZAN3V50HB/forest.JPG work - forest a commission. 2025. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1746040812166-C4NKCBEHQW4NDRQ15C4X/image-asset.jpeg work - leonie & tim a wedding gift commission. 2024. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1713909740386-RZB15XW8N5RAYQ9HM088/IMG_3939.JPG work - Dad Created for my dad’s 80th birthday. Black paper cut on white paper with watercolors. 2024. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1651000518013-48R69PNU0PBGP6IFWQVH/image-asset.jpeg work - who gets to breath? (cancer alley edition) Paper cut of a photograph taken along River Road in St. John’s Parish, also know as cancer alley. Spilt the paper cut into four to mimic the view out of a window and added a pair of human lungs. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1692316160423-UXMHQRI0YLRA0WPT8V1M/image-asset.jpeg work - olivia A paper cut of my niece. Cut black paper backed by white and brown paper. 2023. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1703871332524-KHW1EQEAOD9UB5MCBZXK/image-asset.jpeg work - Coco Puff as Sherlock Holmes Paper cut with watercolor created as a tribute to a great cat that passed away this year. 2023. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1701999319130-1E0VZS8WSOX03O6OPARD/image-asset.jpeg work - Jae with dragon puppet Paper cut with water colors. 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1682467805841-2CAXMYHO0OVVVIKSN4JT/image-asset.jpeg work - Candra & Greg A birthday commission. 2023. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1672782023013-Q31SN0Z95E6KY7JKA6SH/image-asset.jpeg work - sisters Paper cut for my younger sister of the two of us. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1701999478674-KAF0T7ZWXU3YCR64R9EW/image-asset.jpeg work - tango For a friend. 2023. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1701999263752-C198PYH29HMFHELCTA7E/image-asset.jpeg work - cat boss For a friend. 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668133151423-PMJJ3W1HID6L61I6PPU3/metal+ox+self+portrait+2021.JPG work - year of the metal ox self portrait paper cut self portrait. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668132317050-9SBOKRFMP8CM5KUVWRW7/IMG_1121.JPG work - jason & alicia a paper cut commission for a friend. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668132053850-2S4II7WV2J9T60HC3R9F/image-asset.jpeg work - margaret & eli a pape rcut of the couple for a wedding gift. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1647365515581-WV6I62OK37GM5C25K2FU/image-asset.jpeg work - change requires active participation Paper cut started in frustration in 2021 and finished in frustration 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1641868929099-ZB4ZWURZI7T1QTSW0XMB/image-asset.jpeg work - baby billy A paper cut commission for a friend. For this project, I experimented with adding colored tissue paper for background. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1641868816586-Y9P0IWC73O01SO0STO4F/image-asset.jpeg work - mother and daughter A paper cut commission for a friend. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1641868598128-QT10CRQVUZHJT8XOR3SX/image-asset.jpeg work - father and son A paper cut commission for a friend. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668132488276-6969A63DU1K763LYADA4/IMG_0706.JPG work - female scarlet tanager a paper cut for a friend. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1630945618616-KD6IRS38ZSEERBEWY2RA/IMG_0492.JPG work - swallows Paper cut of swallows feeding. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1630945799482-5U9LQEY4TSBIUH4RX8WQ/claire+commission.jpg work - generations Paper cut of grandmother and her granddaughters. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1626900535232-653AO8RNC5OIV3KQBW6S/image-asset.jpeg work - nieces Paper cut of my nieces for my sister’s birthday. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1628641773402-F4CHN33FVCGQTWIEVTEX/aunt+helene.jpg work - aunt helene My mom commissioned me to create a paper cut of the photo that ran in the newspaper for my aunt’s wedding announcement. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1702000140704-13YNZE9YZC5JY6BGVKFV/image-asset.jpeg work - Lily's sister Commission for a friend. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1622350100277-EP26YJB5KJX3MQSY7XKF/mom+%26+grandmere.JPG work - mom & grandmere A papercut for my mom’s 75th birthday. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1614360300795-Y284WVZ4J708OJDJJ61R/image-asset.jpeg work - Fritz, el barco, y los nietos Commissioned papercut. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1611250027130-72UUVWSG7EBV2QLLMBKJ/Erin+papercut.jpg work - Erin Papercut of my younger sister. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1611249652566-X6X0GB6BHJ518AFS10QI/maddy+%26+songa+mounted.JPG work - Maddy & Songa A papercut commission. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1588697427276-ZW9HUUHE5DZ9NHW4UAYG/DSC_1858+1.JPG work - self portrait Documentation during the COVID-19 pandemic. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585250511191-BUMKERAZR7XLAQPTKMF1/washing.JPG work - washing = maintenance = care A papercut inspired by the beginning of my shelter-in-place in a sublet in New Orleans. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1578536512074-FGCL38E389PS8INCYBSP/the+kiss.JPG work - the kiss To celebrate my parents’ 50th anniversary, I went through their wedding album and chose a few photos to turn into paper cuts. 2019. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1578537712638-SIBA9G2T4WPOK4WGO5IV/66.jpg work - outshined paper cut. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579308811490-KR0HEV25KIF05DUWFYPV/there+is+beauty+in+dissent.JPG work - there is beauty in dissent Created in response to 45’s administration. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1588261255128-47LY9IQ268W426D5GVC6/together+resistance+can+be+mighty.JPG work - together resistance can be mighty Created in response to 45’s administration. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1631044022738-D3FKR3KJVUQ41NLQOD8D/ask+questions.JPG work - ask questions Created in response to 45’s administration. silk screen. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1631044140295-LG14VFOHVVHCJ20GCXRG/question+authority.jpg work - question authority Created in response to 45’s administration. silk screen. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1723050414416-OUYA28MRYD8V1IP8R06V/image-asset.jpeg work - stand up, stand tall, stand together Created in response to 45's administration. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1619644248132-RM19OIWPZKHI0HCRGEQJ/image-asset.jpeg work - walking home A kinetic sculpture made with materials from the waste streams in Moab as part of my re-use residency. Inspired by a conversation with a land steward at a community storytelling workshop where we talked about home and belonging and waste and disposability. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1703872514248-L3MEPER5UFR85Y5WRP1J/IMG_3528.JPG work - stencil My long-time collaborator asked me to create a stencil from one of her drawings. Made from card stock coated with paper tape. 2023. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668559821305-86JR1T2BSJRLWRAC6KO5/sumi+ink+and+brush.jpg work - sumi ink and brush experiments using a brush with sum ink. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668560569148-1EO5MAJ6P7TCD2TK166M/loon+block+print.JPG work - the loons An experiment with foam block carving and printing. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1668558345719-TJRPYFBT9AB1XNQPY5BF/burnished+clay+bowls.jpg work - burnished clay bowls one white and one red stoneware bowl with the outside burnished and the inside glazed. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1627420206259-ZDWZZGLPDLNO8HF72MT5/metal+ox+mask+and+horns.JPG work - metal ox mask and horns As I wanted to delivery my annual lunar new year print safely during the pandemic, I made a fabric mask to resemble a metal ox (2021 is the year of the metal ox) hiding in a bush. Photo by Stefanie Loeb. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1651000821619-3C5KUDELP15RM3S5E8VJ/image-asset.jpeg work - table top puppets (Judith Hope design) An exercise in creative memory. Took a table top person puppet workshop with Judith Hope with a friend. The workshop was online and we were only able to take notes. Five weeks later, we deciphered those notes and built the puppets above! 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1645047262130-2OZEPAKKTQJAX85ER1EP/image-asset.jpeg work - egg yolk headpiece A headpiece created for a member walking with Egg Yolk Jubilee during carnival in New Orleans 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1644957729767-QNELSROENQ7095HV8CA7/image-asset.jpeg work - water tiger mask Mask and costume worn as I delivered Lunar New Year cards to friends in town. 2022. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1627421186200-DWXVVZXOYG2RJB1G6KT0/IMG_0487.JPG work - indigo An experiment using an indigo vat dye and soy paste as a resist. 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1619644473737-9A3Z292WOT2VDFU8404R/image-asset.jpeg work - runoff Created from materials in the Moab waste streams (thrift store, recycling center, landfill), runoff was inspired by another community storytelling workshop where we talked about home, belonging, disposability and waste. This group talked about how we treat both land and people as disposable and it was during this conversation that I first learned about the Moab pile, uranium trailings that threaten the Colorado River. (It is currently and slowly being moved north by train.) 2021. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1589904627449-RTFIE62Z7Q6M7ZRA3JZG/cloth+pouch.jpg work - cloth tool pouch An attempt to use fabric scrap to make something utilitarian. 2020. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585675450988-5LMVTC0FOS5F7OOW0NHR/image-asset.jpeg work - tiny masks An experiment in casting multiples from a tiny mold. These masks were given away during Mardi Gras 2018. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585676489645-UCV6E0TO7362XJBLQ8OB/DSC05496+copy.JPG work - upholstery! Learned how to upholster and transformed a couple of bar stools for a friend’s house. 2017. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1691615453247-L8F01HWLN9YVHRW4QXJF/image-asset.jpeg work - Olivia's secret box A present for my niece. This long this box has a lid that slides and a middle section that swivels to reveal a bottom secret compartment. 2014. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1585847693518-7NVB87QL4TA8SL26TSCH/horse+puzzle.jpg work - horse puzzle Started to make puzzles when my friend introduced me to his scroll saw. 2013. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1580500375868-2NG9VE2BCV0LT60U6NWB/old+rubarb.jpg work - audio enthusiast I love radio and podcasts. I often record interviews with friends and acquaintances telling stories. Listen to a piece I created for the Third Coast International Audio Festival's Short Docs Challenge all the way back in 2010. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579574536856-V0BOCAO0JSH05G5O9KVV/image-asset.jpeg work - Medusa Medusa is a graphic novel that tells the story of Egg Yolk, a curious jellyfish who wonders where his fish and crab friends go when they get lifted out of the water by a net. The story of Egg Yolk and his friends Turrit and Medusa is fictitious, but the narrative is intertwined with interludes that explain scientific concepts such as blooms and marine-life hitchhikers. These interludes are placed strategically throughout the story, so that questions are answered as soon as they might arise in the reader's mind. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1579661860655-ENSY7ZBYJVDRKY8BXA8I/image-asset.jpeg work - Trash Island Medusa is a collaboration with Kacy McKinney. Together, we are She Was Solitary. In 2018, we published Trash Island. Currently, we are working on a project about rabbits and bees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1605300278650-QF6HLR2ZOZT01B325VVO/R%26BII+p11.jpg work - rabbits & bees (1 & 2) Last year, she was solitary published rabbits & bees 1. We recently finished part II - page 11 is pictured above - and are eager to start publishing and printing it as soon as pandemic times ease up. https://www.milissaorzolek.com/lunar-new-year daily 0.75 2026-03-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1774054286666-5T62PIA9RAWOALS7QZKS/image-asset.jpeg lunar new year - year of the fire horse 2026 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1768183267125-IKIA5K9WCZPVTQ96JUY8/image-asset.jpg lunar new year - year of the wood snake 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1774054286666-5T62PIA9RAWOALS7QZKS/image-asset.jpeg lunar new year - year of the fire horse 2026 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1768183666050-X5XUXYGIEBFPZV9O3IHY/year+of+the+wood+snake.jpg lunar new year - year of the wood snake 2025 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1707961543391-QLEGQ5RR8EN41CM80RC0/image-asset.jpeg lunar new year - year of the wood dragon 2024 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1674398764054-C9KSORGIF6PWW6ILJEHA/image-asset.jpeg lunar new year - year of the water rabbit 2023 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1645047897679-D1C9N5G8OD0CZS4D4N9X/image-asset.jpeg lunar new year - year of the water tiger 2022 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234082252-OQBV7QY3C4AJEYS17KWO/image-asset.jpeg lunar new year - year of the metal ox 2021 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234194511-PTYTMETDIS1CXDATFM8I/metal+rat+II.JPG lunar new year - year of the metal rat 2020 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234230661-VLXXIU42GFBCVFUIGD2Y/earthpig.JPG lunar new year - year of the earth pig 2019 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234248722-FN5IL2WTB6A8FFW7VF59/year+of+the+earth+dog+2018.jpg lunar new year - year of the earth dog 2018 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234290606-82H9FY9MTO4E0ODGDRHW/year+of+the+fire+rooster.jpg lunar new year https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234297275-2Z49CVU7DB71Y480P8GE/year+of+the+fire+monkey.jpg lunar new year https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234301821-1M917IH3S81DYT4MGREL/year+of+the+wood+goat+2015.jpg lunar new year - year of the wood goat 2015 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234308483-PFRIG6OXWN0207ZPGF9Z/year+of+the+wood+horse+2014.jpg lunar new year - year of the wood horse 2014 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1629234316220-8KG27OWMTF879H7V9SV0/year+of+the+water+snake+2013.jpg lunar new year - year of the water snake 2013 https://www.milissaorzolek.com/what-keeps-us daily 0.75 2025-04-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744147381245-OR8NI6EYHU5BAKQJ1NIN/watching+the+witch.jpg what keeps us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744147381245-OR8NI6EYHU5BAKQJ1NIN/watching+the+witch.jpg what keeps us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744147421872-JTSCTT7Z9XB4J9YTN42G/pulling+up+the+poles.jpg what keeps us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744147396939-44CT9YSPUADJIV8IX32T/the+giant+witch.jpg what keeps us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744147408490-WJXKM0UBHF1BDGRFLVMI/sombras.jpg what keeps us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744147466646-PLFMXQ0X6PN9G7FSE433/common+knowledge.jpg what keeps us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744147446383-DMHSZYPM9ASAEJ4PQHTP/gato.jpg what keeps us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744147454767-4LLKKTOD6J3R02LQXE9K/gate+dans+la+basura.jpg what keeps us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744147352344-8BC2J9F7DQZQZNJMCD0Q/image-asset.jpeg what keeps us https://www.milissaorzolek.com/new-gallery-1 daily 0.75 2025-04-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744148953950-DLB4V8OOKOICFOLORDFV/ONeill681-%28ZF-5693-69196-1-006%29.jpg spoons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744148953950-DLB4V8OOKOICFOLORDFV/ONeill681-%28ZF-5693-69196-1-006%29.jpg spoons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e168b6b26484743f584c93e/1744148957519-YMUOM18ZV4H6XMPXD0NT/ONeill696-%28ZF-5693-69196-1-003%29.jpg spoons 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