It's been a while! My printmaking practice was put on hold while I moved myself and my studio across Pennsylvania to the Pittsburgh suburbs. While gearing up to make some new wet cyanotype prints, I found a batch I made in June, just before dismantling the studio and packing it up, that I never documented. So I am doing so now.
First up was a big print, 20 some inches by 30 some inches. I had always been very protective of my Rodgersia aesculifolia, fingerleaf rodgersia, as I was growing it in less than ideal conditions. As much as I admired its large leaves, a weakness of mine, I didn't want to set it back by taking a cutting for printing. But it was obviously time for that ship to set sail, so I treated a piece of cotton sateen, added perennial favorites hosta 'August moon' and Japanese anemone leave, and gave it a go.
I also did a hosta and wood poppy print, and some plume poppy leaves.
I have worked with these plants repeatedly for many years and wanted to get in one last print of them, although it was a rather rushed and slapdash affair.
Here are the prints after exposure but before rinsing. Lots of good fireworks effects on the large one.
I had perhaps a bit too much moisture in some of the rest but they are still worth adding to inventory and working with at some time.
Looks like they are melting! Which is appropriate as I was melting down a bit at that point.
Here are the finished prints.
I had some nervous energy late one night and went at the big one with a white pen and some textile paints and enhanced it. I took it in to be framed by my wonderful framer, Jenny at
State of the Art who did a great job with a quick turnaround time. And now I have it installed in the place of pride above my new mantle. I rarely make art specifically for myself so this felt a bit transgressive and wonderful and I am enjoying it very much. I forgot to photograph before framing so please enjoy this image complete with reflections.
Here are the rest of the prints from that batch.
They are closing out a chapter in my creative efforts but a new chapter is starting up and I'm excited to see what comes out of it.
A reminder that you can follow along on your social media of choice:
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2 comments:
There's nothing decadent about making something for yourself; it's a balm and a wonderful memento of your garden. It looks beautiful. I'm sure you'll be thankful you made it.
Nice job! I especially like the fact that you framed a treasured print for yourself. You'll not regret that.
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