Review: The End is at Hand
The book has been out for a couple of years, but I was still thrilled to see a new review of my book The End is at Hand. The review is by Carl Abrahamsson of The Fenris Wolf Newsletter, and he thoughtfully describes my research, writing, and linocut illustrations. He says “Perkins draws upon a wide array of sources, from religious texts to scientific studies, creating a swashbuckling tapestry of information that is as informative as it is… depressingly compelling.” That sounds about right!
New Stencil Portrait
I recently made my first stencil piece in about fifteen years. It’s a fun technique, planning five layers of tone and exploring spray paint textures and gradients.
RAK Art Fest Linocut Stamp
The 13th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival will be at Al Hamra Heritage Village from 31 January to 28 February 2025. If you visit, you can hand-print my linocuts onto your own postcard.
I began by visiting the emirate and photographing the museums, mountains, and historical village by the water. The focal point of my design is the fort, a recognizable landmark and where the festival will open next Friday. To the left is the vintage Land Rover displayed by the souk and visitor center. On the right, there are three figures following the path by the fort walls. The elderly figure represents the past, adult is the present, and the child is the future: a nod to the history of the site while maintaining an active role in the community today and beyond, with events like the art festival.
My carved blocks will be available around the village during the festival, with ink pads and postcards. Printing all five in order will complete the design to create your own linocut print.
Landscape Linocut Print
Dubai Linocut Printmaking Workshop
I hosted a linocut printmaking workshop at Hay Designs in Dubai this week. I was lucky to meet and work with talented designers from all over the world. Over the two-hour class, I introduced the historic technique and instructed drawing, carving, and printing techniques. It was a fun event and I always look forward to the opportunity to share my favorite process with other interested creatives.
Booklisti Recommendations
I have a new list of recommended books about the apocalypse on Booklisti.
The Oarsman
Children’s illustrations are great because they don’t have to make sense. You can just draw some random fun things and let the stories come from how they fit together.
Student Printmaking Exhibition at AUD
An exhibition of printmaking student work is currently on display in the AUD campus gallery. A selection of prints from the semester have been matted and framed, accompanied by a written explanation of process. Students have explored a wide range of techniques, including monotype, collagraph, linocut, drypoint, chine collé, stencil, and screen print.
Screen Prints
I recently had a chance to spend some time in the studio making some new screen prints before demonstrating the technique to my class. I like the designs, based on some of my old sketches, so for the next bit of free time I have, I would like to get back in there and explore more color combinations.
