Finding Solace

Ella delves into the work of printmaker and photographer Sophie Twining. Discussing the processes of finding creative inspiration and how this has been impacted by lockdown.

We all have spaces we go to in search of contentment and peace, in lockdown the longing to be in these spaces is becoming stronger and stronger. For printmaker and photographer Sophie Twining, finding solace in nature is a key part of her process into making these beautifully detailed and intimate etchings of nature. Within Twining’s work there is a strong familiarity in the images- we know where we are both mentally and physically.

It is easy for the viewer to find solace simply by looking at these images, which is enhanced knowing the skill and time that has gone into make each individual print. I spoke to Sophie to find out more about her processes and inspiration.

“My work is born from a love of being in nature; the releasing feeling of walking with simply a camera or notebook in hand. I capture the different rural scenes of the landscape, from lake to woodland to ocean, to convey the serenity and calm that the natural world can provide to us. Often, looking at an image creates distance between the art and the viewer as it can be difficult to find rapport with a place that you have not experienced first-hand. The ambiguity and anonymity of my prints, I hope, creates something more relatable and can remind each person of something different and personal, whether it be a place, or a feeling.”

“Human presence is purposefully excluded, providing a quiet space away from the contemporary noise of urban living.”

All artists aspire to create work that the viewer can relate to and find a connection with, but just how does Sophie Twining create this nostalgia which is intertwined through all of her images?

“With access to the amazing print facilities on Woodlane campus, photo etching became my main craft over my three years at Falmouth University. Photo etching is an intaglio technique in which the image is incised into the surface of a zinc plate. The incised lines hold the applied ink which is transferred onto paper rolled through a printing press. The outcomes are usually unknown, and the imperfections or varying tones and marks created by this process add to the distinctive character of each image. I was attracted by the tactility of printmaking and loved the messy, hands- on process. It requires both care and precision, but also allows for plenty of experimentation. It can offer myriad outcomes from one single photograph by using varying printing methods or different coloured inks.”

“The act of taking photographs and producing prints is, in some way, as significant as the outcome itself.”

Sophie’s Tips for exploring other mediums of image making:
-Don’t limit yourself to one medium- there is so much to explore within the realms of photography and printmaking.
-Learn the basics- make sure you know your equipment so that you can make the most of your photo opportunities.
-Be thoughtful- especially as a predominantly analogue photographer, I need to take care when composing each image. This may take a little longer, but this time allows for ideas to develop and the act of observing is a big part of my process.
-Talk to other creatives- don’t be afraid to ask questions, there are plenty of people out there with helpful advice! Most love to talk about their craft and are excited when others are interested as it’s their passion! This may also open up networking and collaboration opportunities for you in the future!
-Invest time in your practise- the more you practise, the more confident you’ll become in your abilities! Explore your subjects, think about what you want to convey with your work and develop your skill.
-Don’t let your mistakes put you off- I’ve definitely had some off days in the print room where no matter what I try, I’m not happy with my prints. Although frustrating, this can be helpful in showing you what does and doesn’t work with particular methods of printing. Don’t let it put you off trying something new. If you’re working in a communal space, technicians or other printers can show you where you may have gone wrong or suggest new ways of doing something!
Sometimes a mistake in the printing process produces and unexpectedly pleasing result!

With lockdown it has been challenging to maintain motivation for many. It can be even harder being left with our phones and social media, I asked Sophie how she has been managing with lockdown and maintaining motivation.

“Throughout lockdown, the natural world has remained a source of creative inspiration. Going for walks with a camera or notebook encourages me to look at my surroundings more closely and to find inspiration in the conceivably mundane aspects of life. There are so many unique patterns and points of interest to be found; the shape of light falling across the ground, the textured detail of a leaf, or the swirling contortion of branches reflected in water can all be artworks in themselves. My deliberate and contemplative process allows more time for evolving ideas to form. I usually don’t set out with a particular image in mind, but rather I respond to my environment, which differs from day to day and between seasons, meaning there is always something new to observe.
Since lockdown, it’s become apparent that more people are valuing their time spent outdoors. These moments spent in our outside environments is proving to be an essential part of our new daily routines in order to support our mental health. Although our access has been limited, it seems that more people are realising the healing powers of nature and cherishing it more than ever. I hope, now more than ever, that my work provides a comforting sense of nostalgia and bring the calmness of nature inside and into our hands.”
“Don’t put so much pressure on yourself- I think it’s important to accept that there will be days of little or no motivation, especially during unsettling and stressful times like these.”

If you would like to view more of Sophie Twining’s work then check out her website and Instagram, they won’t disappoint!

@solace.studio www.sophietwining.com

EnvironmentViridis Magazine8 June 2020