Meet Rachel Kmecheck
A lifelong lover of medieval art, folklore, and architectural details, Rachel grew up captivated by illuminated manuscripts, carved woodwork, and the way old-world objects seemed to hold memories inside their lines.
Today, she combines those obsessions with modern tools to create artwork that feels gathered, kept, and cherished—pieces that carry the spirit of relics, but belong in the present.
The Process: Hand-Carved Prints & Artisan Home Goods
Rachel specializes in hand-carved linocut printing, relief printmaking, and digitally refined intaglio-inspired designs. While the focus remains on fine art printmaking, Rachel also designs jacquard-woven throws and architectural 3D-printed decor to offer a full range of handcrafted goods.
Every piece begins with an original drawing, carved block, or etched plate, then moves through a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern precision. One aspect that surprises many is the amount of time invested in creating a single printing plate; the meticulous etching process alone can take up to 10 hours for smaller pieces, highlighting the devotion poured into each work.
Throughout her artistic journey, Rachel has explored various designs inspired by medieval tile patterns and the intricate details of stained glass masterpieces. These collections continue to evolve as she discovers new wellsprings of inspiration, currently delving into the realm of mythical creatures.
Her studio is where old and new meet:
- hand-carved details
- pressed textures
- layered inks
- archival papers
- laser-cut plates
- 3D-printed sculptural elements
This blend allows her to preserve the soul of historical craft while creating work durable enough for everyday homes.
Embracing the Medieval in Modern Times
Rachel is part of a growing movement of artists who believe that home décor should tell a story, not just fill a wall.
Medieval art speaks to that desire.
It’s full of symbolism, myth, floral flourishes, animals, and architectural forms that feel both ancient and comforting. These motifs connect us to something older and steadier than the pace of modern life.
- Her work resonates with people who love:
- castlecore interiors
- cozy reading nooks
- folklore and mythology
- old books and illuminated manuscripts
- handcrafted artisan pieces
- décor with soul
If you’ve ever wanted your home to feel like a quiet sanctuary filled with meaning and beautiful details, you’re in the right place.
Studio Solace: The Music Behind the Magic
What Rachel adores most about what she does is the ability to immerse herself in the intricacy and detail of these prints. It feels as though she is bridging the gap between past and present, paying homage to the artists who came before her by honoring their techniques.
As a night owl, Rachel finds solace in her studio, surrounded by the melodies of her favorite movie soundtracks. The enchanting compositions from "Lord of the Rings," "Game of Thrones," "Harry Potter," and "Outlander" transport her to realms of inspiration while she works. There is no greater joy than the moment she pulls a fresh print off the press for the first time—a blend of exhilaration and anticipation as she witnesses the transformation from ink and plate to a tangible piece of art.
Crafting Narratives: Sculpting Spaces with Stories Through Medieval Inspired Art
Every print, sculpture, and woven throw is designed to make your space feel more like you. Her work is created for people who value:
- texture
- craftsmanship
- narrative
- symbolism
- history
- sensory coziness
Whether you’re styling a library wall, a gaming corner, a writer’s workspace, or a cozy living room, her pieces bring warmth and intention into the room.
Our Quest at Modern Medieval Press
We create art that helps people build story-rich homes — spaces that blend beauty, history, and imaginative exploration.
Thank you for joining this artistic journey, where the medieval and the modern intertwine to create captivating works that celebrate the beauty of the past and ignite the imagination of the present.
Through intentional craft and careful design, we aim to:
- preserve old-world artistic techniques
- revive medieval imagery for modern interiors
- offer artisan-quality work without heirloom pricing
- keep handmade craft accessible
- celebrate the details that make art feel alive