The monotype pictured above was made with leaves collected from my garden – Kowhai, Akeake and Ferns. Foliage is placed on an inked surface and run through a press multiple times to build up colour layers and plant forms. I also used the “ghost” image of the foliage to print from – the impression left on the inked surface after the foliage is removed. I found this technique relates well to the nature printing I have been exploring in my art practice.
A digital download of the Fern, Ake ake and Kowhai artwork is available on my Patreon page for subscribers. On Patreon you can sign up to receive a digital artwork each month from me for as little as US$1 per creation. Artwork prints make excellent Christmas gifts and you can print more than one copy.
I’m looking forward to utilising the traditional printmaking techniques I have learned with Toni Mosely at Te Tuhi over the past year to extend my art practice. The small Manuka and Karo linocut below was included in the Te Tuhi student exhibition.
Planning and research for art projects in 2018 and a repaint of my studio will keep me busy over summer. An artwork using mosses, lichens and ferns is the focus of one of these projects. New Zealand has many species of native ferns and it is an interesting area to research.
This Christmas I’m offering leafy greeting cards on the Corokia Studio Etsy shop available as an instant digital download. Sheets of matching gift tags are also available. Any purchases help me to continue making art.
I’d like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Christmas. If you would like to see my latest artwork I’ll be posting on Instagram and my Facebook artist page over the holiday break.
Meri Kirihimete
Celeste Sterling, 2017
Celeste Sterling 