The wondrous power of the sun and moon mark our cycles of circular and linear time. We rely on them for light, energy, warmth, and continuity. The oceans and forests create habitat for a diversity of species whose existence we depend on, yet many of our human choices harm the earth. The burning of fossil fuels, pollution, and exploitation of land distresses our relationship with this majestic planet.
Join me on a pictorial journey to celebrate the wonders of our natural and created world. Nourish is a book about hope and stewardship, as the drum symbolizes the heartbeat – the pulse of life – it connects us all.
Nourish is an unbound artist book composed of eight twice-folded folios printed on both sides and housed in a handcrafted collapsible bamboo box. These pages have endured over 100 runs through the Vandercook letterpress. I explored new artistic territory in this project; investigating color by mapping out fifteen different multi-color reduction relief prints, and experimenting with layered images on transparent paper.
Four folios are printed on Gampi-shi paper and four folios are printed on Gampi 2-layered paper. The starling murmuration is printed on transparent Usuyo Gampi paper. The papers measure 14 ¾” x 14 ¾” and fold into squares of 7 3/8” x 7 3/8”. When closed, the bamboo box measures approx. 8” x 8” x 2” and opens flat to 18” x 10 ¼”. Images are made from reduction-cut linoleum blocks, reduction-cut wood blocks, pressure printing, and polymer plates. The title page and colophon are handset and letterpress-printed. There is a wool felt interior cover with a cast paper pulp spoon attached. A porcelain turkey wishbone is adhered to the inside of the bamboo box lid. There are 21 copies in this edition, with 2 artist proofs.
This project was partially funded by an individual project grant from the Regional Arts & Cultural Council. 2% of sale proceeds will be donated to Ecotrust.