Jenny Kitchener is a renowned contemporary printmaker who focuses on our relationship to the environments we inhabit. Kitchener’s concern with the natural world expresses itself through her subject matter, which largely features flora and fauna. Her intricate printmaking practice is often supported by collage to build up layers of meaning within her work. Much as art imitates life, Kitchener’s work reflects her life on a rural property surrounded by birds and insects, the perfect backdrop to inspire her creative practice.

Kitchener’s 2018 linocut with collage, “In the service of trees: bird pollinators,” pictures two birds perched on tree branches. These birds are shadowed by an intricate background of tree branches, leaves and fruit. The collaged birds and fruit feature prominently as the only colourful elements in the composition, adding a pop of colour to Kitchener’s signature use of black and white. By reflecting on birds, this print focuses on imagery of flora and fauna to emphasise the importance of our natural ecosystems. In this print, Kitchener reminds us of our dependence on nature as a sanctuary and source of comfort.

Across Kitchener’s career her works have been collected in several notable Australian and international collections, including the National Gallery of Australia, the Parliament House Art Collection, State Libraries and the London Print Studios Workshop. She has been recognised as a finalist in several awards, such as The Silkcut Award for Linocuts, the National Works on Paper Award, the Fremantle Print Award, the Mackay Artist’s Book Award and the Burnie Print Prize.

This print features in the Parliament House Art Collection and was commissioned by the Print Council of Australia.

For avid collectors of Australian printmaking, Kitchener’s “In the service of trees: bird pollinators” is a compelling reflection on nature.

Jenny KITCHENER
'In the service of trees: bird pollinators' 2018
Linocut with collage on paper
Image Size: 51 x 58 cm
Dimensions: 51 x 58 cm
Signed: Signed, titled and dated on verso.
Comes with Letter of Provenance
Condition:Excellent:
(c) The Artist or Assignee