We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Tyler Thenikl. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Tyler below.

Tyler, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I learned most of my fine art skills while studying at Olivet College. Before that, art had never been a big part of my life. I sketched and doodled when I was young, but most of my education had pushed me towards STEM fields. Somehow, I ended up at Olivet College as a Graphic Design major. Just a few classes later, and I’d become a bona-fide art nerd. That’s when I met Don VanAuken, a painter and printmaker who’d just been hired at Olivet. When I saw Don’s woodcuts for the first time, I was in awe. He was able to capture such an intense line quality and expression in carving his images. I signed up for his class the following semester and the rest is history.

Since then, I’ve been an artist-in-residence, been in dozens of exhibits, and pursued an MFA at Ohio University. I have many teachers and mentors to thank, but it all started at Olivet College with Cynthia Eller, Gary Wertheimer, Curt Ellis, and of course, Don VanAuken.

Looking back, I sometimes wish I’d begun focusing on visual art sooner. But no matter what, I feel tremendously grateful for all the experiences I’ve had up until now. Learning to make, to discuss, and to understand art takes a lot of time and effort. Education is continuous, and it can be costly, whether that cost is financial or opportunistic. There are very few shortcuts. Above all, I’m thankful for the fundamentals that I learned way back when. They’ve allowed me to become the artist I am today.

Tyler, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m a contemporary landscape artist who explores the implications of industry, extraction, infrastructure, and pollution. I recieved my Bachelor of Arts degree in Studio Art and Graphic Design from Olivet College in Olivet, Michigan. The following year, I became an artist-in-residence of the Kirk Newman Art School in the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. In 2021, I moved to Appalachian Ohio to pursue a Master of Arts degree at Ohio University. Since then, my research has been focused on the effects of mining on the region’s history, culture, and landscape.

I work primarily in print media. The processes of the different media have always spoken to me. Working with raw or secondary materials requires time, respect, and collaboration. I am trained in intaglio, lithography, and relief printmaking. Using materials sourced directly from the earth to advocate for its preservation lends them agency, which I find incredibly enriching.

I am very proud of how my work blossomed at Ohio University. My practice has expanded across disciplines to include printmaking, photography, painting, drawing, sculpture, installation and even social practice. Above all, the art I produce considers not just visual qualities but also people, place, culture, history, science, etc. My peers have taught me that context is incredibly important for contemporary art, especially if you want to convey honesty and nuance. These qualities are at the center of my artistic voice, and key to engaging with audiences in a meaningful way.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding part of my creative journey has been the opportunity to connect with so many wonderful, talented, and thoughtful people. In my experience, creatives tend to look out for one another. This is important to me, and to us all, because it isn’t easy out there in the world! While we often pursue things that we’re passionate about, we all struggle in some way, shape or form. And while we certainly don’t all get along, most of my experiences working with or around other artists have been very positive. It creates a sense of community like no other. I have colleagues, friends, and mentors from all walks of life, and they have all taught me important lessons. Nothing is more rewarding than connecting, staying in touch, and seeing them prosper.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Before moving to Ohio to pursue a graduate degree, I was working a full-time job designing graphics for an insurance company. I’d worked hard to get there. They offered solid pay, benefits, vacation time. I had a fantastic boss and great coworkers who encouraged and advocated for me. Despite all of this, I felt as though something was missing. I had a passion for creating physical things, pursuing my own ideas, and working with my hands. These were things that the office could not offer, and I felt tremendously conflicted. How could I leave this opportunity behind? Despite the emotional turmoil, I chose to take the leap of faith and apply to a couple of MFA programs in printmaking. When I got accepted, I knew there was no going back.

I reflect on this decision often. There have been lots of struggles and frustrations since. But there have been triumphs, too. At the end of the day, I’m proud of the artist and the person that I’ve become. I wouldn’t change it for the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tylerthenikl.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tyler.thenikl/

Image Credits
Process photos by Benjamin Wirtz Siegel