Whale Songs
Humpback whales are an integral part of Australia's marine ecosystem, and each year, these magical creatures embark on an epic migration along the country's eastern and western coastlines, travelling thousands of kilometres from Antarctica to warmer waters where they seek safe havens for calving and nurturing their young. The connection between humpback whales and Australian waters is intrinsically beautiful, delicate, and we are lucky to be able to witness the stunning presence of these creatures.
My latest whale prints were inspired by a woman in my surfing group who was after a heart-aligned gift for her friends, and the stunning scenery we have the privilege of being surrounded by each week.
‘Dancer’ was inspired by the pristine environments of Noosa and surrounds. The iconic Pandanas tree that lines Noosa’s beaches frames a scene of a giant humpback whale breaching out of the water. A copper sun is setting in the distance over Cooloola National Park, as the water glitters in the golden rays.
‘Whale Song’ is a baby humpback whale, simple and beautiful on its own. Signifying the journey the little whales have to make after they learn from their morther as they head back south and then out on their own.
These pieces took me about a week to design, carve and print.
They are printed using a mix of Sakura Prussian Blue and Black ink mixed. The sun is 100% copper leaf on ‘Dancer’.
These lino prints are printed on archival paper, ‘Dancer’ is A3 size on 210 gsm, and ‘Whale Song’ is A4 size on 225 gsm.
Each design is a limited edition of 20 prints only.
Keeping the songs of whales alive
Despite their awe-inspiring presence, humpback whales (as is the case for all marine life) are not immune to the perils of human activity. Climate change, marine pollution, entanglement in fishing gear and nets, ship strikes and the threat of seismic blasting are just a few of the pressing threats this species encounters in Australian (and global) waters. These challenges not only endanger the well-being and survival of these gentle giants, but also disrupt the delicate balance of marine ecosystems they play a vital role in.
We can all do our part for the conservation of our oceans by learning about wildlife and their specific needs, following and supporting conservation campaigns, and getting involved in the change you feel able and inspired to do. Could you imagine a world without these beautiful creatures?
Baby humpback whales learning how to slap their fins and tails with their mums, taken on a trip I took to Hervey Bay.
