Metamorphosis

Silkscreen

Edition 16

Released October 2003

SOLD OUT

There are numerous times in one’s life when one undergoes some sort of transformation. For many, this may come about through graduating from school, changing jobs, or even the death of a loved one. For me, the marriage to my wife, Nicole, and the birth of my daughter, Claire, brought about this “Metamorphosis.”

This design is done in a style reminiscent of the Coast Salish spindle whorl. In the centre is a human figure with outstretched arms. In the arms are the profiles of eagle heads and in the body is another eagle face. If one were to turn the design upside down, two other eagle faces would be evident—a diving eagle and one in the tail. The eagle is one of my family’s primary crests. The upside-down face in the centre symbolizes the spirit of the human.

Surrounding the transforming human/eagle figure are two swans. Trumpeter swans are notable to me for two reasons: they nest in the Comox Valley and they mate for life. The swans in this print represent the transformative people in my little family—Nicole and Claire. They make me a better person.

This print was exciting for me to do as it was truly produced as part of a learning experience. I approached master printmaker Andy MacDougall of Courtenay (www.squeegeeville.com) to teach me the basics of serigraphy, or silkscreen printmaking. Over the course of a few sessions, I learned how to create separations for each of the colours and how to “burn” these into the screen. I also learned the intricacies of pulling the squeegee and making a beautiful “blend” on a print. The end result of this education is the print, “Metamorphosis.”

“Metamorphosis” is a limited edition print using the silkscreen method of printmaking. Print production took place during October of 2003 at the MacDougall Screenprinting of Courtenay B.C. The artist was involved extensively throughout the process and has ensured that all stencils were destroyed following printing. A total of 22 prints bear the title “Metamorphosis” and are signed by Andy Everson: 16 in the primary edition bearing the numbers 1/16 through 16/16; 2 Artist’s Proofs; 2 Remarques; and 2 Printer’s Proofs. The acid-free 100% Stonehenge paper measures about 14.75x19 inches. Image size measures about 10.5x14.75 inches.