Collagraph
300mmx230mm
edition of four
This print was created using the intaglio collagraph technique, cutting and texturing card, adding carborundum and layers to hold ink and realise the image.
It's based on an early cast lead fire insurance mark. In the 18th and 19th Century, insurance companies maintained individual fire brigades and these marks were fixed to the front of buildings to identify the insurer in the event of fire. They fell out of use as municipal fire services were established. I adapted my print from a worn plaque which depicts a tower as an early form of company logo.
Something about this image expresses the elements of the tower in world culture. Built as defence, as beacons of faith, as proud symbols of wealth and power, or to oppress and imprison, the tower has many forms. I like to think of this tower as a place of reflection and overview, afforded by a feeling of security and elevation.
Tower
Were not these stones, borrowed from Earth's store
By faithful mason's toil, be mounted on each other,
The imagination could not hold, this landmark for the soul.
Stretch forth hands, to measure and admire,
Proud ambition, dark inked against evening sky.
Now that light is fading, and the coming night
Makes us tarry despite its chill,
The tower stands for us in memory and time,
And may be standing still.
John Morris 2018
