Laura Drever

Last year I was selected to create a Limited Edition Print (edition of 30) to help celebrate Soulisquoy Printmakers 40th year – here is Burra.

The print has been made by creating a series of lino cuts, which are then printed up layer by layer to build the finished image. Creating this print was a really interesting process. My comfort is painting, so doing this felt like a real challenge.

Printmaking offers so many options, lots to learn and it seems endless! My main aim with this print was to ensure that it echoed my existing practice. Choice of colour was the obvious place to start with mark making and form coming next. Works on paper require a different approach and it took a peedie while to find the exact sequence to make this work. Lots of recutting, lots of experimental prints and mixing of colour to get it just right. All very exciting and part of the learning process.

The imagery is probably more representational that usual.

The decision to do that came from a recurring dream I have about the Hoy Hills. In the dream, I am swimming in Burra Sound, looking towards Hoy. My family and friends are there and I am floating, watching and enjoying the view. I never make it onto land and I am ok with that, it’s peaceful. When (actually) walking the landscape in Orkney, I look for the Hoy Hills to help me understand where I am, watching to see how they change shape as I move around the landscape, focusing on how the light makes them look different every time. Like many artists, they are one of my favourite parts of Orkney’s unique landscape.

Editioning in a larger number is something that I have not don’t before. Making 30 prints the same, with four different plates and various cuttings in between took time, concentration and patience. I found it hard but very enjoyable.

I hope you enjoy it too.

If you would like to purchase, they are available as part of Soulisquoy at 40 Exhibition at the Pier Arts Centre. Further details can be found on Soulisquoy Printmakers website.