Casting Back - New Linocut Series, Old Idea

Crow 4" x 6" Print on 6" x 8" Etchu Card 2018

Blue Jay 4" x 6" Print on 6" x 8" Etchu Card 2018

Mourning Dove 4" x 6" Print on 6" x 8" Etchu Card 2018

Chickadee 4" x 6" Print on 6" x 8" Etchu Card 2018

​ Sometimes a series comes together from a few different directions. Over the past few months, an important part of my daily routine has been watching all the different birds that land in my yard. I received a bird feeder at Christmas and another at Mother's Day and they are stationed where one can sit with a cup of coffee to enjoy the ongoing drama. Needless to say, my yard is teeming with all sorts of interesting species and a continual source of inspiration. That was the beginning of this series. 

You have to see and touch this Etchu card in person to get a feel of how delicious it all is!

​ Recently, I've been resorting my art supply storage areas and uncovering all sorts of treasure. One of those has been a stash of handmade Etchu card. Named after the region in Japan that it is made in, it is a thick, creamy, decadent paper. All  four sides have a natural deckle edge and you can clearly see the kozo fibres in the texture. I've been itching for a little project to try it out on. ​

I love painting my sketchbook covers - this was the catalyst for the series.

​ In my sorting, I came across the above pictured sketchbook. The bird and the circle triggered an idea that blossomed into the series I'm working on. Although the image is 10 years old, it felt really new to me because I hadn't sat down and properly explored the idea way back then (working a day job, little elementary school kids and painting for Etsy consumed most of my time in those days). Once these three elements came together, the series just unfolded effortlessly. Once they are dry I will sign and edition them then let you know where you can get your hands on one!