Recently, I've been fallen.
I've been captivated, and positively fascinated with the world of inks and fine-liners.

In exploring the nature of ink as medium, I've been introduced to techniques, approaches, and insights which have led to a welcome evolution in my practice. 

Due to the permanent nature of ink, every line placed is there to stay - something that gives ink a reputation of being intimating and unforgiving. In practice, however, the effect is exactly the opposite. 

The planning and execution of an inky etching leads to the development of a radical confidence. You enter a rhythm and a flow the same way that the ink flows from your pen. In these moments of harmony you can come to see the next line or series of lines before they are placed in a sort of artistic synesthesia. 

In terms of subject matter, I've taken to drawing trees and natural landscapes in this style of etching. An attempt to capture the vitality and vibrating quality that seems to emanate from such subjects as observed during hikes or my natural rides (see Golden Evening)

Rarely, if ever is the goal of an artist to recreate exactly what's being seen. Often, I find it is more satisfactory when aiming to capture or highlight an intention. Using a variety of elements such as texture and line quality to suggest an idea - resulting in a drawing which captures the quality or impression of a thing, rather than that itself.  

Etched into ink!
Immortalized in thousands of lines.