Description
The Print
Each print comes with it’s own certificate of authenticity signed by me. Only the finest materials were used to make this limited edition print, which I have produced myself. Both the paper (Somerset Enhanced Velvet) and the inks (Epson UltraChrome Pro) are of archival quality, meaning the print could last up to 400 years.
Size: The framed print is 53.5 cm x 53.5cm and the unframed print is 50cm x 50cm. A standard size that should enable you to get a frame easily online if you choose this option.
The Technique
I draw with Uni-ball Signo ballpoint pens on raw linen canvas. To prepare the surface I lighten the canvas with a white oil paint wash. Once this is dry, I draw with the biro, as I would with pencil on paper. After the drawing is complete, it’s varnished (to fix the ink in place) and more white oil paint is used to add light and finalise the composition. The ink is actually surprisingly versatile, in terms of its colour. If I want a blue tinge to the work I can layer white oil paint over it, or leave the canvas showing through to leave a sepia tone.
The Inspiration
During our trip to Uganda, made as a result of winning David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation’s Wildlife Artist of the Year 2022, we had many extraordinary wildlife encounters. One of the most special and memorable was an occasion as we were leaving one national park for another. It was very early morning and as we turned a corner in the road, there in front of us was a leopard mother and 2 cubs. They moved away very quickly, but one of the cubs returned to stare at us, as if contemplating coming over to investigate. It was soon called away by its mother, but not before we’d been able to drink in the wonderful character of this inquisitive youngster.
