I completed one large-ish print while I was on the mokuhanga residency in Japan: one that features plants in a garden. I was inspired by the abundant greenery all around the house, and in the surrounding gardens.
I did some initial pencil sketches and arranged them in a wide landscape.
Then did a painted version to work out solid areas of colour.
I then started carving a long block of shina wood. And then carved, 
and carved some more...
When the block was fully carved, I set up, ready to print.
It's the largest mokuhanga print I've ever made, and was extremely challenging. But I learnt alot, and really pushed myself. I had only meant to do a pink and green version, 
but felt that blues might work too. 
I'm now fond of them both!
I intend to take the print further, and create an artists book out of it. It'll be shown in Hawaii in a few month's time, and I'll blog again when it's all done...
garden
botanical garden
I went to the botanical garden inside the Golden Gate Park in San Francisco with my friend Aude Van Ryn when she was visiting, to do a spot of sketching.
I have a soft spot for succulents and cactii, so I spent quite a bit of time looking at all the colours and textures... 
cactii
On a very sunny day (before all this rain!), we went to Sunset in San Francisco to see the sea, and visited the General Store. I adored their relaxed vibe and especially the garden filled with cactii and succulents...
I also have a bit of thing for watering cans. OK, any gardening tools at all really...