Cedar Waxwing in Pacific Dogwood, handprinted linocut print, © 2018 Patrick Norton

The Cedar Waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum) is a beautiful bird with a wide distribution in North and Central America and the Caribbean. It has an interesting trait in how it gains its very distinct coloration at the tips of its wings and tail (it really does look like the feathers are dipped in brightly colored wax). It consumes the brightly colored fruit of plants like the Pacific Dogwood and uses a specific enzyme to convert carotene (the plant form) into kerocarotenoid (the animal form). Needless to say, I plan to make a colored version of this print in the future.

Handprinted linocut, 5" X 7" print area on 8"x10" acid-free paper. Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash oil-based ink. With cellophane sleeve.

This image began with a drawing which I transfer to a piece of artist's linoleum (a version of the flooring material). I cut away the white areas with gouges (like small wood chisels but concave) leaving only the areas and lines intended to be black. I then ink the block with a roller and place in a forme, which is a sort of frame that holds the block in proper alignment with the paper to be printed on. I insert the paper or cardstock against the registration tabs, felt blankets are laid on top, and I roll the whole set through my press. The result is a reversed (R-L image of the carved block.