Keep the Plow in the Ground...
Woodblock print 2009
5" x 8"
Edition 70

Print Title: Keep the Plow in the Ground
Paper Dimension: 5 x 7 inches
Image Dimension: 4 x 6 inches
Block: Four cherry blocks
Ink: Akua Color pigment
Paper: New Hosho
Edition: 70
Comments: Process: This year I started working in the traditional woodblock method. The process requires a separate block for each color, damp paper, perfect registration, and the pigment is brushed instead of rolled. Pigments are a mix of pure pigment and water with rice paste to "make them stick". The woodblock process in the Japanese tradition is exacting, demanding and tedious, yet somehow extremely satisfying. The most intriguing part of the process is the color mixing and the amazing watercolor transparency of these colors, much different than the saturation I am used to achieving with oil based inks. Much more delicate and surprising, especially when I allow them to mix.

Image: Unfortunately 2009 marked the passing of both my father and my husband's father, exactly 19 days apart. Upon returning from my father in-law's funeral, my father fell and ultimately lost the battle with the stroke that changed his life 12 years prior. Two funerals, one month, not a good year. But they, like all father's do, taught us in their own way to keep working, keep fighting, keep the plow in the ground and good things will happen...or at least you will get the damned field plowed. Of all the lessons learned from him, that, I think, was the most valuable.

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