Louise Edwards

Art has always been at the heart of my life. With over 20 years of experience as a painter in the pottery industry, I have spent my career immersed in the decorative arts, refining my skills and developing an intuitive understanding of colour, texture, and composition. My creative journey has been shaped by a lifelong passion for making, decorating, and bringing artistic expression into everyday life. Now, through the intricate process of reduction lino printing, I continue to explore my deep connection to craftsmanship and design.

Reduction lino printing demands patience, precision, and commitment. It is a subtractive process, where the same block is carved away in stages, layering colours to build up an image. Each decision is final; there is no turning back once a layer is removed. This technique appeals to my love of structure and discipline while allowing space for spontaneity and discovery. I find the balance between control and unpredictability deeply satisfying—every print is a testament to the interplay between planning and intuition.

Inspired by the natural world and the rich textures of the countryside, my work reflects themes of nature, seasons, and rural life. Living in a country cottage, I am surrounded by an ever-changing landscape that fuels my creativity. The organic forms of leaves, trees, and wildlife find their way into my compositions, translated through bold lines and layered inks that capture both movement and stillness.

My background in pottery painting has influenced my approach to printmaking. The careful application of decorative detail, the understanding of layered surfaces, and the interplay of colour all seamlessly transfer from one medium to another. The rhythmic process of printing echoes the structured yet fluid nature of pottery painting, reinforcing my deep-rooted desire to adorn and embellish. My prints extend this decorative tradition—each one a carefully constructed piece of art that brings storytelling into the home.

Beyond technique, there is an emotional thread running through everything I create. Art, for me, is not just about the finished piece but about the act of making—losing myself in the meditative rhythm of carving, rolling ink, and pressing paper. It is about the joy of bringing an idea to life, of transforming a blank surface into something rich with meaning. My prints celebrate creativity, reflect my enduring love for countryside, and pay homage to the artistry that has shaped my life.

Through my work, I invite viewers to connect with the beauty of handmade processes, to appreciate the dedication behind each layer, and to embrace the imperfections that make each print unique. In a world of fast production, I find fulfillment in the slower, more thoughtful act of printmaking—one that honours craftsmanship, tradition, and the timeless desire to create.

Winner of the The Chroma Award (2025)