Rosanna Morris

Bristol‑based botanical printmaker Rosanna Morris tells Rosanna Rothery about her love affair with nature and the city that inspires her art

Botanical printmaker Rosanna Morris sees the beauty of nature everywhere, even in the densest concrete jungle. She grew up on an urban council estate and recalls picking dandelions from the cracks in paving slabs and hunting for snails and woodlice near her home.

Today, her printmaking process usually starts with a visit to the fields and woodlands on the outskirts of east Bristol where she lives. Rosanna loves nothing more than to forage under trees and in hedgerows before returning to her studio with a posy of plants to study and develop into prints.

When it comes to art, nourishment, cooking, walking and entertaining guests, she doesn’t see the natural world as something ‘other’, rather as an essential part of everything ‑ including what it means to be human. It’s a theme she explores through her work.

Her recent book, Botanical Block Printing, is a step‑by‑step guide to her artform, and she hopes it will encourage others to experience the thrill and satisfaction she derives from capturing nature through the medium of bold botanical block prints.

Why block printmaking?

It’s something you can do at home at your kitchen table with very basic resources, which yields hugely satisfying results. Not only is it one of the most accessible printmaking forms, it’s also one of the most accessible artforms. Block printmaking creates bold work and is very creative: you can craft a great many different objects.

It’s also an ideal craft for the beginner. You don’t need to be a formal artist or dedicate your whole week to your art; you can do it in the evenings and on the weekend.

What’s the secret to finding time to be creative while leading a busy life?

It’s the eternal question, even for me – and I’m a full‑time artist! My tip would be to try, consistently, to draw in a sketchbook. Keep it by the side of your bed or in your bag. When you’re in a GP or dentist waiting room, for instance, instead of sitting and looking at some random reel on Instagram, start drawing, taking note of your surroundings and being more present. That’s how I try to bring creativity into my daily life.

Why is creativity important?

It may be difficult to slot it in, but it’s paramount for all of us to have time to be creative. It’s part of the joy of life to allow ourselves time to think creatively and express ourselves; it’s important for our mental health and happiness.

I hope my book gives people an excuse to connect with their creative practice and nature, and to allow themselves time for creativity as an indulgent treat for themselves.

The book is a how‑to, why give away your secrets?

I’ve taught courses and events at Cato Press and always enjoyed sharing knowledge and being open and honest about the printmaking process. I’m from a working‑class background and, although I went to art schools in Bristol and Camberwell, I always felt the art world was this impenetrable, superior place with secrets shared behind closed doors. There’s nothing to be gained from secrecy and I hate that part of the art world.

rosannamorris.com

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