4x6 leaf portraits

I find particular beauty in the intricate patterns and textures of leaves I collect on walks in parks, at friends' farms, and in my urban neighborhood in Richmond, VA. I like to render portraits of leaves that I come across, using an intuitive approach to develop patina on the copper surface. I often start with household chemicals: a simple acetic acid (vinegar) and non-iodized salts, or more complex traditional formulations, to bring out a variety of color. Ambient temperature and time allow patinas to develop naturally on the surface of the copper, and the water and tannins in the leaves also inform the renderings. Many of the background patterns are made with recycled produce nettings and other found fabric patterns.

these patina leaf portraits are rendered on a 4” x 6” copper sheet mounted to a wooden frame, with traditional wire hanger, reverse.

each item is one-of-a-kind