Sarah Koff | Object Permanence | Exhibition Statement

Object permanence is the understanding that something exists even when it cannot be seen. Some environmental issues are highly visible, like islands of plastic floating in the ocean or the smoke from wildfires darkening the sky. However, many problems remain invisible. Pollutants can travel through waterways, air, the insides of trees, and soil. Humans are responsible for these issues. We discard PFAS-laden chemicals down the drain, allow our septic systems to overflow, and introduce microscopic invasive species from other parts of the world which can cause widespread damage to ecosystems. These threats to our health, biodiversity, and ecosystem resilience require immediate attention and action. Yet due to their invisibility, we often lack a connection to these crises and may even forget about them entirely. Issues such as the presence of the persistent chemical PFAS in the soil, nutrient overload in the Great Bay estuary leading to eelgrass decline, the invasive root systems of certain plants, and the concealed destruction of the beech tree population by an invading nematode are central to Koff’s work. By employing monoprint techniques like stenciling and selective inking alongside traditional woodcut practices, her prints reveal the hidden layers beneath the surface beauty of the natural world. Through her printmaking, Koff celebrates the beauty of nature while shining a light on environmental threats, making them more visible in the process. Her work serves as a call to action.

Biography | Sarah Koff is a woodblock printmaker known for her layered and intricate prints that highlight critical ecosystems and environmental challenges. With degrees in natural resources and environmental journalism, she brings context and depth to the stories expressed in her woodcuts. A member of the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, Zea Mays Printmaking, and Boston Printmakers, Koff lives and works in the coastal woods of New Hampshire. She teaches printmaking workshops and actively involves the community in environmental events through printmaking activities. Recently, she completed a year-long mentorship program at Zea Mays Printmaking, a studio focused on non-toxic research and practices in printmaking. Koff exhibits her work in regional shows and participates in the annual New Hampshire Craftsmen’s Fair.

Artist Statement | Sarah Koff creates woodcuts in her solar-powered studio located in the woods of New Hampshire. She is dedicated to educating others and advocating for environmental issues that affect her community through her artwork. Koff’s prints examine our impact on natural environments, species, and resources, highlighting the importance of strengthening our connection with the natural world. Trained in traditional woodcut techniques she utilizes both multiple block and color reduction methods to produce bold, colorful images. In this exhibition, she also incorporates elements of mono-printing including stencils, selective rolling, and layered papers. Koff is committed to using non-toxic materials and carefully considers the origin and production methods of all her supplies. Not only does she prioritize minimizing her environmental impact, but she also focuses on her health by using only vegetable oil-based inks that can be cleaned up with soap and water.