I returned home from the residency (mentioned in the previous blog) energized and inspired. I immediately began planning an accordion book using the woodcuts as imagery. I also began writing about my experience at Wildacres. A poem evolved from my writing and the title of the book was chosen - I Walk With PLANTS. I encountered a few technical challenges, but the project came together through work and experimentation.
I printed the woodcuts on pressure prints. The pressure prints were printed on Mohawk Superfine text weight paper. This makes a nice paper for use in artist books. I used Acua ink for these prints.
I set the poem in 12 point Garamond and the colophon and title in 24 point Garamond. I printed this on the same pressure printed papers as the woodcuts. Each woodcut was accompanied by printed title page (24 point Garamond) adjacent to it in the book.
I was pleased with how the leaf ornaments provided a decorative element to the title page.
I mounted the printed pages on Bugra paper. This paper works beautifully for many book structures due to how nicely it folds and the wonderful selection of available colors.
The cover is completed and the book assembled. Milk paint always works well on papyrus. The textured and painted covers combined with the woodcuts was very satisfying.
Title page form locked into place on the press, ready for proofing and printing. Notice the antique leaf ornaments. I added them at the last minute.
Botanical identification text forms set up on the press. I was able to print four identification pages at once.
I used papyrus on the cover boards. Notice the recession. I added a print once the milk paint layers were sanded and polished.
The book was ready to be shipped to the Kalamazoo Book Arts Center! I have now participated in this open call for four years. It is always a rewarding experience.
I am most grateful to Wildacres Retreat for awarding me the Residency. The botanical woodcuts provided the foundation for this project. This was a wonderful opportunity for growth, learning, and a bit of adventure!