The “Tulip Vine” has become a personal logo or icon for me this year; I think she is a perfect stand-in for my own brand of femininity, optimism & growth.

When I was little, in the spring & summer time, my mother Margot was always sending me into our garden with my scissors to cut chives and herbs and mint and roses and peonies and tulips. Taking time to drain the sandy soil from the tulip's squeaky leaves. It was astonishing how once the stems were in cold water, they opened. A true tulip connoisseur also savors their wilting mess.

Joining Magic Shop Studios this year, I had no idea that I would have access to a gorgeous, Yves Klein-blue, mid-century Griffin etching and intaglio press, courtesy of Magic Shop Studios Founder, Jennifer Mygatt Tatum.

I also did not know that I would become neighbors and friends with designer and printmaker, Michael Rylander and his Sweet Bippy Press and letterpress studio.

I shared my original “Tulip Vine” drawings with Michael and asked if he might be interested in collaborating on an edition of letter pressed Tulip Vine art prints.

He said yes! Working with Michael is the best. He is a great listener and has a keen eye for design and color.

Michael created two plates; one plate for the fleshy part of the Tulip Vine (in Green and Petal) and one plate for foil (Gold).

We created this elevated art card as a fun and accessible way to introduce new friends to my works on paper. I hope you enjoy your Tulip Vine!