Introduction:
Cornwall, with its rugged coastlines, picturesque landscapes, and unique flora, has long been a muse for artists seeking inspiration from the natural world. As a lino print artist, the breathtaking beauty of Cornwall can be a boundless wellspring of creativity, offering a diverse range of subjects for designs. This blog post is my first, and therefore a perfect place to start as an ode to all I draw inspiration from in the nature that surrounds my life here in Cornwall.
Coastal Majesty:
Cornwall's coastline is a masterpiece of nature's artistry. The powerful waves crashing against the cliffs, the mesmerizing play of light on the water, and the distinctive rock formations create a captivating visual feast. From dramatic seascape with towering cliffs to the intricate details of tidal pools teeming with life, I find the coastline endlessly inspiring, freeing and great at blowing the cobwebs away.
Floral Elegance:
Cornwall boasts a diverse array of wildflowers and native plants. I am lucky enough to have dogs, that demand you get out in all weathers, and within minutes, I can be in meadows adorned with colourful blooms, and if I'm lucky, be a witness to the delicate dance of butterflies and bees. The intricate shapes and vibrant hues of Cornwall's flora are often translated into my lino prints, I am always aiming to capture the essence of the county's botanical beauty. You can see an example of this floral inspiration in my EUPHORBIA design.
Historical Charm:
Cornwall is steeped in history, with ancient ruins, castles, and charming villages dotting the landscape. The rich history of the region regularly inspires my lino print designs, I find the straight lines and structural elements of architectural details or stylized depictions of historical landmarks juxtaposes well against the curves and patterns of nature and history can add depth and narrative to artwork. You can see this interplay in my ISEO design.
Fauna Flourish:
The wildlife of Cornwall is equally diverse, from seabirds along the cliffs to the elusive creatures inhabiting the moors. I am always trying to capture the spirit of Cornwall's fauna in my lino prints – the soaring seagulls, the playful seals, or the majesty of a stag silhouetted against the setting sun. Wildlife is becoming harder to spot due to habitat loss and the use of pesticides amongst other factors, so I like to hopefully remind people through my designs, how precious our wildlife is as a resource, and these depictions can add a sense of movement and life into designs too.
Seasonal Transformations:
Cornwall undergoes striking seasonal changes, each offering a unique palette of colours and moods. I love the changing seasons , and adapt my designs to reflect the warmth of summer, the vibrant hues of autumn, the crispness of winter, or the renewal of spring. Above is a sample print of my design CATKIN. I was playing with a colour-palette that reflected the change in season from Winter to Spring.
Conclusion:
In Cornwall, nature becomes a living canvas, and as a lino print artist, I have the privilege of translating this beauty onto paper. In my creative journey, I hope to capture the natural wonders that make this corner of the world truly special. If you'd like to know any more about my designs or design process, you can always email me on:
Sending love from this little corner of the world,
Joanna
留言