Ruth Blackburn

Please click on thumbnails to see the full art work. 

Statement 

I studied Biological Sciences at The University of London in the 1970’s and although my initial interest was in Zoology I soon discovered that plants are particularly fascinating in their diversity and ecology.  I have always enjoyed painting and developed my skills in botanical illustration using very fine and detailed pen and brushwork. Sadly I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease 9 years ago, which explained why I was gradually finding it more and more difficult to continue painting in this style.  However a course at St Vincent’s College in lino cut printing spurred me into developing this technique. I am currently investigating the effects of different means of applying the ink to the lino cut to provide a softer and more interesting effect in the print.