Nature Imprinted

Spurred on by the global climate crisis, printmaker Jane Spink feels increasingly motivated to make art that will help raise awareness and re-connect people to the nature that we all share the planet with. And having worked as a freelance textile and graphic designer for nearly 20 years, followed by 16 years teaching art in schools, she's well placed to bring this new linocut 'how to' guide into the world. Based on artwork created under the moniker Inky Dog Studio, 'Nature Imprinted' is a great resource for anyone looking to get into the craft of linocut. -- John Coe, Editor of Pressing Matters Magazine A great deal of trouble has gone into the production of this utterly beautiful book, which is one of the most satisfying I have ever handled [...]  This is a joy [...] Quite simply, if this doesn’t make you want to take up printmaking, well, I despair. -- Henry Malt * artbookreview.net * Learn to carve birds, flowers and leaves to create prints inspired by the natural world. From ready-to-use templates for all the projects, you'll make print blocks and learn to create your own. This book will help anyone setting out on a linocut journey.  -- Machine Knitting Monthly * Issue 317 * This book is beautifully presented with lovely illustrations of Jane’s work. One can clearly see Jane’s love for this art form. She reassures the reader that the technique she presents in this book is inexpensive, so anyone could start and enjoy this form of art. I started reading this book back to front – beginning at the Trouble shooting section – hoping to save myself some most likely unavoidable mistakes. It is reassuring to see that even professionals make mistakes and that these can be rectified. Then I had a look at the short introduction to what is linocut and its brief history; followed by very clear information on tools and equipment. The list of different cutting tools available and the exact sizes Jane used, is very helpful as potentially one only need three cutting tools to achieve all the projects in this book. The idea of using other inks not just printing inks is also enlightening. As a seasoned crafter I already own some of the ink pads mentioned and could use what I already have to start with. Jane also explains very simply different paper that could be used and effects one could achieve with them. In the Techniques section, Jane encourages to try playing with the tools and engage in mark making to achieve different effects and develop own style. The Demo project takes the reader by the hand, showing step by step the basic process and techniques. This section is clearly illustrated and packed with tips. I particularly like the ‘Advantages and disadvantages’ sections, as these could save a beginner from some potential pitfalls. In the Design and inspiration section, Jane encourages the reader to use personal inspiration like photos and sketchbooks. There are 10 projects for us to have a go at, all well explained and each build on previously used skills. I can’t wait to have a go and start using my own ideas following Jane’s advice and guidance. I have a couple other books on linocut but this one is just perfect for the beginner. It is not overloaded with information, giving enough guidance and info to have a successful go at this beautiful art form. It would make a perfect gift to anyone starting their journey in lino cutting or a reluctant printmaker wishing to take some inspiration from nature. A fantastic addition to anyone’s artistic library. -- Mariola Leeman * Customer Review *