Environmental statement

I grew up in the heartland of the Canada's wood products industry. Wood is so commonplace that we can sometimes take it for granted. Through making art I’ve gained much respect for materials and where they come from. I think it is important to use a balance of environmentally conscious and quality materials to combat throw-away culture.

Paper

Unless specified otherwise, the majority of images are printed on Somerset printmaking paper, made by St Cuthberts Mill in the UK. The paper is traditionally mould made, archival and acid-free. This paper is not made from wood pulp, rather cotton rag. See here for more information: http://www.stcuthbertsmill.com/how-we-make-paper/

Printing blocks

Lino prints are made from artist grade lino, which is mostly natural, recyclable, and biodegradable. Lino contains linseed oil, ground cork and limestone, wood flour, rosin and jute. Wood block prints are a mixture of birch plywood, Shina plywood and found wood. Baltic birch is native to northern Europe where it grows and replenishes quickly. Shina plywood is from northern Japan where it is harvested sustainably. Some prints are made from salvaged or found wood, which lends images great character and texture. All wood blocks are kept in my studio archive and occasionally sold as pieces of art in their own right.

Packaging

Only essential packaging is used in order to protect prints during shipping. Paper and board envelopes can be re-used where possible and are fully recyclable. You will find an inner sleeve protecting your print from friction and moisture. This might be repurposed paper, newsprint, glassine or polybags. I am committed to buying no new packaging for inner sleeves. 

Ink & studio consumables

Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash inks are high quality and made in the UK. 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 into the studio for a workshop you can enjoy a safe printmaking experience.