I very commonly overdraw on my OEXP & LEXP prints.
Overdrawing is where I literally draw over the top of the photographic print, such as adding the numbers 01012017 to the print you can see above. This is hand-drawn in pencil.
Overdrawing in the context of my artwork sometimes means me making marks on the print with a screwdriver, or a mark with my thumb, or red crayon, or blue pen. The overdrawing I do is always particular to any given artwork.
Overdrawing has a couple of different functions.
First and foremost: it is beautiful to me. It intensifies the meaning, adds layers & depth.
My work is so often about not only the words but the detail within the work, the shapes the letters and marks for me create an emotional landscape. In this way, the overdrawing adds a depth and rawness to the work. When you see the artwork in real life, pencil will shine with the light. Scratched-in marks will give light and shadow at once.
The other excellent function overdrawing performs is to make each artwork within an edition its own original print: Each person who purchases a print for their collection gets a slightly different version. I love that.
Overdrawing for Susan on Lay me down with a gentle hand, 2017
This shot shows a very small detail from a large Fleur Wickes Original print of "Lay me down with a gentle hand", which Susan bought.
I wrote the following in an Instagram post:
"Red for her strong and lovely heart, which had been so recently and thoroughly broken. Gold to help it mend. // It's my hope that this artwork gives a woman going through a very difficult time a little comfort. A bright spot in the darkness. // This one's especially for you, S. x"
Overdrawing on Daydream 2017
This shot is a detail from a beautiful photograph print, Daydream 2017.
The nature of this artwork is monochrome. Gorgeous deep blacks and chalky whites. The gold overdrawing references how precious our dreams are, as well as being a lovely point of colour and contrast within the artwork.