Natural history collections hold a fascination for me. Tray after tray of tiny (and not so tiny) bugs, beetles or butterflies, like pieces of jewellery, rich in variety and detail. In contrast to the fish it is their static qualities that appeal, the regularity of pattern in their body shapes. Selected insect images were part of a touring Millennium Bug exhibition (Denbighshire County Council and Artreach) along with other artists’ interpretations of the ‘millennium bug’ idea.

Flowers and plants are ideal subjects to look at for printmaking possibilities, with repeat patterns in petals, leaves and growth habits. Fuchsias are especially lovely, with blooms that look like ballet dancers.

The collection of pansies (four in each series) were produced after finishing the residency at Chester Zoo, as a tribute to the beautifully planted and maintained gardens. I endeavoured to reproduce the velvety textures and intensity of colour in giant size enlargements.

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