The natural world has always fascinated me, and as a subject for artistic exploration it provides endless inspiration—from the textures of fur and feathers to the play of light on shapes and volumes and the quirks of personality and expression. In relief printmaking, I can add to these considerations the textures provided by the chosen matrix: wood or PVC or linoleum, and the size and quality of line. The carving of the block can be a somewhat physical, but at the same time a meditative process that allows me to further immerse myself in the creation of the finished work.