The central image is a print using Mokuhanga; a traditional, centuries old, Japanese printing technique, from carved woodblocks, printed on Japanese washi paper with watercolour pigments. The scroll was made in celebration of the Chinese New Year of the snake in 2025 but with a connection to the local landscape. The print depicts the European adder, which is often found in the Yorkshire moors. Markings on the back of the adder are in a flowing calligraphy style, wishing for an ease of movement and connections across continents in the current fragmented world.

For more than 30 years Japan has supported international artists through residencies and programs to revive the traditional technique of Mokuhanga, which I have been privileged to take part in. This printmaking method is now recognized and practiced by a growing number of printmakers around the world and in the UK.

The international skill exchanges like this are vital for survival of heritage crafts, that are rooted in using natural materials, techniques and most importantly the human hand.