Echo Printing

Echo printing is a process that I developed using plants, printing-making paper, and dye to transfer an “echo” of the plant material to the paper. I then use watercolors and ink to create unique colorful and impressionistic botanical paintings.

I based my process on the technique of eco-printing, where plant material is bundled inside of cloth and steamed or boiled to release the dye found naturally inside the plant, creating a contact print in the shape of the leaf or flower used. Using paper instead of fabric, adding different types of dye and mordants, as well as experimenting with layering plants between contact plates of metal and wood, I have developed a process and style of my own.

This video demonstrates how the first part of my process unfolds. Many thanks to my son Matt Penaso-Stinson!