Pink Magnolia (Liriodendrum tulipfera) That showy tree behind Tehama Hall, 2/05
In the Spring of 2005 I was commissioned to create a series of pictures about the Chico State Arboretum which spans the entire 119 acre University Campus. A series of banners were made from the original images and a subsequent limited edition poster was produced (all designed by colleague Alan Rellaford).
Most of the pictures were made by placing found objects directly onto a flatbed scanner - a technique reminiscent of some of the earliest photochemical processes practiced by 19th century artists such as William Henry Fox Talbot and Anna Atkins. I added captions in my own handwriting to indicate the specimen's common and scientific names, and the place of discovery.
Here's a slideshow of the original work (11 pictures, 700 K). The prints are usually sized to 40" x 40", though I do make smaller versions. I have continued to gather specimens and ideas and intend to expand the scope of inquiry to consider more broadly the physical space and activities of our campus.
Byron
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