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. Colleague Alan Rellaford designed a series of banners using the images that were then installed on the Gus Manolis bridge. The bridge was eventually destroyed in 2014 by a fallen California sycamore (Platens racemosa)! We also made a limited edition poster. Eventually I enlarged my inquiry to include specimens beyond trees.
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 something about the place, or act of discovery.
The original prints are typically sized to 40" x 40", although I sometimes produce smaller versions. Each image is printed on 100% cotton rag inkjet paper and limited to an edition of 25 regardless of size.
Some day I intend to add to this work that is as much about the act of looking, curiosity, and discovery, as it is about physical specimens.