Let me tell you, creating linocuts has become so much more than just carving and inking!
It’s turned into this amazing adventure of exploring the natural world around my studio. Ever since I discovered the incredible textures you can get from leaves and bark, I haven’t looked back.
Using these foraged finds as printing tools adds a whole new dimension to my work. Suddenly, my prints are teeming with unique textures and surprising details, all thanks to a humble fallen leaf or a rough piece of bark.
Take, for example, my “Lovers” print—a symphony of textures and glistening ink, all thanks to the organic patterns imprinted by nature’s tools. In this link you can see the whole process of creation of the artwork Lovers and how I use the papers for printing.
It’s as if an entire arsenal of artistic implements awaits just outside my doorstep. And the possibilities don’t end there!
Experimenting with natural dyes.
Brewing colors from local plants has been both a challenge and a delightful surprise. Sure, it takes a bit more trial and error than grabbing a tube of paint, but the results are absolutely stunning. Plus, it feels good to be creating art with a sustainable approach.
The coolest part?
This connection to the environment isn’t just about having fun with textures and colors. It adds a whole new layer of meaning to each piece. It’s like each linocut becomes a little story about the place where I found the materials.
The textures whisper tales of specific trees, the colors echo the local flora, and it all comes together to create this beautiful conversation between nature and my art.
Honestly, incorporating natural materials has become more than just an artistic technique; it’s become a way for me to express my love for the environment.
I hope that by sharing this process, I can inspire others to see the artistic potential in the world around them, and maybe even encourage a little eco-consciousness along the way.
With ink and love,
Milinoink
