The Wildlife Trusts XII: Generations – Limited edition print

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 55 cm x 35cm and the unframed print is 50.5cm x 40.5cm. 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
This was the twelfth artwork created as part of The Wildlife Trusts project. The project lasted just over a year and involved us travelling around England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, visiting 53 Wildlife Trusts reserves, across 20 separate Trusts.

Although this is the twelfth artwork it is inspired by the sixth reserve we visited, Camley Street Natural Park in London. It is the very definition of the phrase small is beautiful. It’s a tiny reserve right next-door to King’s Cross Station and London Wildlife Trust deserve an award for making this such a special place. We were there in spring and there was a pair of coots nesting. These are often overlooked, but I couldn’t think of a better way to show new life and the habitat it needs in a piece of art.