The Artists

Erica Applewhite - White Apple Studio

Block prints & block print cards

As a child I frolicked in the yarn and fabric of my mother's fiber art studio but was drawn more toward paints, pens, and paper. Later in college, I stumbled upon printmaking, namely etching, as a way to bring the element of surprise back into drawing. As I pulled the printed paper from the plate, I was reminded of the delicious anticipation before opening a Christmas gift or being sent on a treasure hunt. In my current block prints, I have discovered an even more direct method of creating this same sense of delight. The block I use is similar to a linoleum block but more malleable. The material resembles hard rubber, can be carved immediately without being heated, and is called by different brand names such as Mastercarve or Safety Cut. Its portability meshes beautifully with my mobile, ferry-shuttling lifestyle. In one round-trip it is often possible for me to sketch the image on the block and carve it out to make ready to print at my studio that same evening. Later I may add a touch of colored pencil for accent.

Inspiration for my landscapes comes from the woods and water of my home in the Pacific Northwest and from local landscape artists such as Emily Carr, John Cole and the art nouveau-era Canadian Group of Seven. Another source for my imagery is ordinary or quirky objects, animals, and food. Additionally, I enjoy visual documentation of any type of travel or adventure near and far such as a trip to the local hardware store, and overnight kayak paddle, or an expedition to build houses for the homeless in Mexico.

2010 Summer Studio Tour: August 13, 14 & 15

2010 Winter Studio Tour: December December 3, 4 & 5

Questions? Call 206-842-0504, or e-mail us at: bistudiotour@earthlink.net.