PRINTING PROCESS
I have an overwhelming urge to seek out local tree species that have fell or been discarded for a variety of other reasons. By my own nature I like to repurpose things and bring them to life in a new way. I've found these pieces on roadsides after a storm, or after the local electric company clears lines, at saw mills, and in my own yard. Each piece is sentimental to me in some way. I'm not out to find the perfect round specimen. I'd rather investigate the pieces with character, rot, bug hollows, lightning strikes, fires, and undulations. I like learning their of their story and photograph to document each step. I want to make it clear that I do not harvest trees for this process and product.
After I find what might be the perfect piece, I let it dry for several days or even months. I first use a planer to level out the rough saw cuts, then sand them down anywhere from 80-120 grit. After the existing patina is sanded away, I hit the wood carefully with a torch to slowly burn away the springwood. Sometimes its a one and done and sometimes there's several layers to this step. I then use a soft wire brush and a wet rag to removing the burned carbon to reveal the rings.
After this step it's onto the printing table where ink is carefully applied evenly, this step takes some finesse. Paper is applied to the prepared wood cut and I use various things and my hands to transfer the image to paper.
A unique relationship and understanding of each species is formed through the making process; from the resurrection of a discarded tree, the aromas and textures, to the final print and display, stories are revealed and lessons are learned. I gladly welcome you to enjoy the same story as a daily reminder of nature's beauty in your own home.