2024 In Print: February
Introducing “Onward, Together”.
A commentary on resilience and communal spirit being evoked by this 12-layers reduction lino print. In designing and carving this block, my intention is to address the profound urgency of our times for unity. This lino print stands not just as a call to action for women, but as a symbol for the collective journey of humanity towards greater empathy and understanding. It highlights the critical need to move beyond the divides of discord, acknowledging that our shared mission is far greater than the sum of individual pursuits. This is a visual representation of progress – a reminder that the path we are on as artists has the propensity to transcend personal ambitions. It is a narrative about connectivity, about setting aside competition in favour of collaboration. In the time we are in now, this message is more urgent: If not us, who?!
The depiction of women (and in this I mean all who identifies as women and femme) stepping forward in unison symbolises a collective intuition and collective wisdom. The deliberate leading with the left foot, guided by the brain’s intuitive side, serves as a metaphor for our necessary onward journey – a journey led not by rivalry, but by a deep-seated recognition of our interdependence. The circular batik-based circular patterns and the 13 carved stars invite deeper contemplation on our interconnectedness, reflecting on the unity required for our advancement.
Focusing from the feet to the shoulders, purposefully omitting their faces, emphasises the idea that personal appearances are irrelevant in our larger quest. This is a movement celebrating resilience, a shared stride towards creating a nurturing space for growth and support, able to meet adversity head-on. “Onward Together” goes further than an artistic expression, it is a declaration for a community that values every contribution, where today’s hands nurture tomorrow’s seedlings.
Sempre Uniti, Divisi Ma. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder, the message displays our power lies in our unity, not in isolation. This is not news. But perhaps worth re-iterating. There is true challenge before us – where individual’s light – shaped by the struggles, pain and resilience – can shine unfettered by the shadows of division. “Onward Together” is a call, and more than that, it is a rallying cry for all of humanity, urging us to realise that the legacy we leave will be marked by the spaces we create for healing, growth, and mutual uplifting. Empowered women empowers women, no? It is an invite to anyone to lend a hand, offer an ear, share a compassionate heart, fostering a nurturing space where every potential seed can bloom in its full time.
This ‘exceptional’ creation stands out as a large-format piece, roughly A2 in size, meticulously hand-carved and hand-burnished. Offered in a highly limited edition of just four prints. This piece not only celebrates the theme of Women in Art but also embodies the spirit of collaboration and collective growth. ‘Exceptional’ – for me, at least, as this is the largest lino block I have completed; and in such a short span of time. Only 7 days, from research, design, design transfer, carving, ink-mixing to print – carving & inking multiplied 12 times per sheet of Liber Charta paper used.
Reduction lino printing technique means each layer of colour inked onto block and paper requires re-carving of said block, inked anew, and printing onto paper. Each ink have been carefully hand-mixed and in small batches to ensure limited or zero wastage.
It marks a significant milestone in my printmaking journey, reflecting a dedication to honing my craft and embracing continuous learning.
The creation process spanned from Saturday to Saturday, involving design transfer, carving, gouging, cutting, inking, burnishing, and hand-printing—repeated 12 times in the reduction linocut method. This journey was as demanding as it was fulfilling; it pushed me to my limits, leading to moments of exhaustion. Despite this, the support of friends and family has been pivotal, allowing me to engage with the community, share ideas at Portsmouth Creates & New Theatre Royal, and participate in workshops run by fellow artists. Reflecting on my path to recovery from the profound challenges faced in 2020 (remember pandemic era?), this project underscores how far I’ve come and the invaluable role of a supportive network in navigating the healing process.
Towards the collective,
your printmaker guide,
Nusye
