When She Breathes (3/4 VE)

In printmaking VE stands for Variable Edition.  A Variable Edition uses one or two basic elements in each print and then adds different elements, possibly printing on different paper, using different coloured inks or adding new pieces using the chine collé process.  Thus each print becomes an original art work.  The edition is numbered - in this case 3/4 means this is the third varied print using the same base face and feathers on different paper and with chine collé added to the face.  Chine collé is used in printmaking to add new, usually lighter, material to a base surface which is then run through the press and printed.  Glue may be used to ensure the new material adheres to the base material - thus chine", which is French for China, the source of the paper used and "collé", French for "glued".

Why this image?  When she breathes - many things can happen.  She may breathe red feathers of hope and strength, passion and determination.  Or she may breathe new ideas, new places, new ways of seeing and doing, of connecting with the inner self and the external world.  Every breath is a step, creating and transforming.