For my first Print Day in May I challenged myself to carve and print a two-layer reduction woodcut print from start to finish in a single day. I didn’t quite manage that, but I did complete my print within 24 hours (it was still Print Day in May somewhere in the world!).
My print is called “Hold me. Soon.” and is influenced by my so far 42 days in lockdown in Guildford, just outside of London, UK. I live alone, so one of the biggest things I miss is human contact. I carved the image on a solid block of magnolia, reminiscent of the magnolia blossoms outside my window that have allowed me to experience spring vicariously. The image is printed using home-made relief inks consisting of rust, reminding us of the transient state of being and that the current situation too shall pass. The paper is Japanese washi from a recent holiday in Japan, which serves to me as a reminder that in the future we will be able to go out, travel and forge new friendships and experiences once again. Printed in an edition of nine, this is my largest successful edition to date.
I really enjoyed challenging myself and immersing myself in a creative project, and was moved by the connection to other printmakers across the world during a time where we are all so cut off from those around us.
Intriguing print and touching words, thank you.