Midnight Oil Studio

There’s something quietly special about work made in the still hours—when the world slows down, and everything feels just a little more intentional. That spirit lives at the heart of Midnight Oil Studio & Workshop, the printmaking practice of husband-and-wife duo Allison and Jonathan Metzger.

Founded in 2015, their studio began as a shared dream—one shaped by years of studying, teaching, and moving through different corners of the country. After earning their MFA degrees from the University of Kansas and spending time teaching in Mississippi and Virginia, the two found themselves wanting something more personal: a space of their own, where they could create work by hand and connect directly with the people who bring it into their homes.  Now based in Des Moines, Iowa, they work side by side in their home studio, creating limited-edition serigraph prints using traditional, hands-on methods. Every piece begins with a drawing, then moves through layers of hand-cut stencils and carefully pulled ink—an intentional, tactile process that leaves subtle variations and a human touch in every print. 

Their work draws from American Modernism, but feels deeply rooted in lived experience—travel, landscapes, small moments, and the rhythms of everyday life. Jonathan often leads the drawing process, while Allison brings the work to life through color, carefully mixing inks and building palettes that feel both bold and harmonious.  At its core, their practice is about connection. They believe in the power of original artwork to spark curiosity, create conversation, and bring a sense of meaning into everyday spaces. Each print is made entirely by their hands—from concept to final pull—reflecting a commitment to craftsmanship and to the idea that art should be both thoughtful and accessible. 

Over the years, their work has traveled far beyond their studio walls, appearing in juried art fairs and exhibitions across the country, earning recognition for both its technical precision and emotional resonance. But no matter where their prints end up, the intention remains the same: to create something lasting, personal, and quietly impactful.