Arkesden artist exhibits prints inspired by surroundings

The grass will seem much greener – and possibly pinker too – after a unique exhibition opens at Saffron Walden Library next week.

Hedgerows and Fields sees Arkesden artist Jane Chetcuti branching off into a different vein of her graphic arts career, and capturing her environment through the creation of graphic prints and Giclée.

Coined in 1991 by printmaker Jack Duganne, the term describes fine art digital prints made on inkjet printers.

“Making images has always been something I have done – as a child, at school, college, then in my professional life,” the 46-year-old former arts director told the Reporter.

“It is completely natural for me to interpret my environment using the many techniques I have developed along the way.”

The mother-of-two, who was brought up in Cambridge and studied at Chelsea School of Art, has lived in Arkesden for the past eight years, collecting inspiration from her surroundings.

One of her prints depicts Arkesden Church on Christmas Eve, while her best-selling Giclée print Pink Cow Parsley illuminates the countryside with a smorgasbord of vibrant shades.

Aesthetic impact is not the artist’s only motivation, however.

“Hedgerows are interesting markers outlining the countryside – I walk by them, drive by them everyday and observe the changes throughout the seasons. They give home and food for our wildlife so should be celebrated,” added Jane, whose career in publishing culminated in her role as art director for the UK’s best-selling food magazine, BBC Good Food.

Hedgerows and Fields opens on Monday, April 20, and runs till Saturday, May 16, at Saffron Walden Library. The limited edition prints are produced in runs of 50, and all are signed. To find out more about Jane’s work or to purchase prints, go to janechetcutiartist.moonfruit.com or email jane@wordofmouth.uk.net