Linocut: Thistle

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Thistle 4.25×6 Linocut printed on Arches Cover paper, with Akua Mars Black ink and painted with Watercolor

After working larger these past few weeks, I wanted the satisfaction of starting and finishing something in one day, so I carved this little linocut (process shots begin at the bottom of this post). I find carving very meditative, and quieting. When I’m stressed or grieving, the process of art-making is a safe refuge, and usually, there’s a sense of progress at the end of the day. The countdown to the San Diego Artwalk is ticking at 14 days, with a long list of things to finish before April 28th & 29th. Hiding in the process of carving this little face was like taking a power nap. 🙂

After carving & printing a test proof, I added a thistle pattern to the background, inspired by  the lovely textiles of William Morris.

Getting ready to carve with my secret weapons: An S-Brace, Flexcut & Speedball knives, a big glass of water and a bowl of popcorn. And an audio book. 🙂

A piece of burlap-backed linoleum adhered to MDF board with wood glue. I used brown shoe polish on the linoleum, followed by a thin coat of polyurethane to seal the surface & see more contrast while carving. I’ve begun a light pencil sketch in this shot, and will go over that with a sharpie magic marker.

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Art Quote

Rosa Bonheur had a fine character, at one and same time proud, independent, and full of self-sacrifice and heart. To such a nature, the unhappy Franco-Prussian war was a terrible blow, and all the more so because she was brave, and loved France. On this noble patriotic artist, it had a really heart-rending effect.
During the Prussian occupation, the ten-antlered deer with whom I had a battle described elsewhere in these memoirs, also showed himself to be a real patriot. One day some German officers in full dress uniform came from Fontainebleau to visit Rosa Bonheur’s studio. But on their arrival, they found the doors closed against them. They insisted, however, in going round in the park, which the gardener did not dare to hinder. On reaching the stag’s paddock, the officers were desirous to get a nearer look at the animal; and, despite the gardener’s warning, they opened the gate and went in. As soon as he percieved them, the stag rushed towards them, and leaping into the middle of the pool that was his drinking place, he splashed the muddy water all over their fine uniforms. This protest of the ten-antlered stag was a great joy to his mistress.

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