Manuscript 17: Bird Call

From the 'Manuscript' series of 20 unique hand-rubbed woodcuts. Measuring 100 x 150 cm on constructed Indian ecological paper they are multi - layered, and complex of surface. Using wood and linocuts, etched metal and plastic surfaces alongside tissue and assorted papers, a palimpsest of chine-colle and collage, repeated rubbings and transfers evolve into wilderness and unfolding time. Taking the words from Cormac McCarthy's novel 'Child of God', they refer obliquely to the changes in landscape and the repercussions on humans who inhabit the land. Cormac McCarthy's poetic novels are mainly set in the wilds of the early American West where values decline and populations drift and change. Research into literature and imagery from many different cultures, and the study of manuscripts defaced and decomposing, burnt or worm eaten has further inspired this latest series of prints. They allude to the margins of our territory and our morals. As more of our climate degrades our need for toleration and understanding will be taxed to the edge. An essay on 'Bird Call' by Sandy Sykes can be read in the book 'How Artist's See East Anglian Places' Edited by Ruby Ormerod Green Pebble Publications 2010. ISBN978-0-9558147-2-3