Environmental Statement

I grew up in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada, where vast amounts of natural resources are harvested on an industrial scale for the global market. The landscape I once knew has changed immensely due to human intervention. In making my art I respect materials, people in the production supply chain and where things come from. I use a balance of environmentally conscious and quality materials to combat throw-away culture. I prioritise UK and EU suppliers and manufacturers to reduce the amount of shipping involved in an item reaching me.

Paper

Unless specified otherwise, my paper of choice is Somerset, made by St Cuthberts Mill in the UK. The paper is archival quality due to being made of cotton rag instead of wood pulp. See here for more information: http://www.stcuthbertsmill.com/how-we-make-paper/. Newsprint is used during the etching process and is recycled into packaging where possible.

Printing blocks & plates

Lino is largely natural, recyclable, and biodegradable (linseed oil, ground cork and limestone, wood flour, rosin and jute). Wood blocks are either Baltic birch ply or Japanese Shina ply. Some prints are made from salvaged or found wood, which lends images great character and texture. Etchings are made on copper and zinc plates. All printing blocks are kept in my studio archive and occasionally sold as pieces of art in their own right or reconstructed into studio equipment and handmade tools.

Packaging

Only essential packaging is used to protect artwork during shipping. Paper and board envelopes can be re-used where possible and are fully recyclable. You will find an inner sleeve and/or card protecting your print from friction, bending and moisture. This might be repurposed paper, newsprint, glassine, polybags or pieces of cardboard. Larger artwork is packed in repurposed boxes and card. I do not buy new materials for inner sleeves or boxes.

Ink & studio consumables

I use “Edinburgh Etch” mordant (Ferric Chloride) with acrylic grounds. Traditional linseed oil and Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash inks are used, mostly made in the UK. For screen prints, acrylic paints and washable stencils are used. I use recycled rags, soap, water and Zest-It citrus cleaner in my studio. Zest-It is also made in the UK and is biodegradable and non-toxic. If you come visit the studio you can enjoy a safe and solvent-free experience.