“Six Blue Poppies,” a captivating screenprint by the esteemed artist Donald Sultan, invites viewers into a realm where the ephemeral beauty of nature meets the enduring power of artistic expression. Within this evocative composition, Sultan captures the essence of the poppy flower with striking simplicity and profound depth.

At the heart of the piece lies a cluster of six poppies, their delicate petals unfurling in a symphony of cerulean blue. Sultan’s masterful use of color imbues these blooms with a sense of otherworldly allure, evoking a dreamlike quality that transcends the boundaries of reality. Each poppy emerges from the darkness with a quiet intensity, their forms rendered with a careful balance of precision and spontaneity.

Against this ethereal backdrop, Sultan employs his signature motif of industrial forms—a nod to his early career as a construction worker—to ground the composition in a sense of tangible reality. These stark, geometric shapes serve as a stark contrast to the organic fluidity of the poppies, creating a dynamic tension that infuses the piece with a palpable energy.

Yet, despite this juxtaposition of natural and man-made elements, there exists a sense of harmony and unity within “Six Blue Poppies.” Sultan’s keen eye for composition ensures that every element—whether organic or geometric—finds its rightful place within the overall tableau. The result is a work that transcends the confines of its medium, inviting viewers to contemplate the interconnectedness of all things and the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected of juxtapositions.

“Six Blue Poppies” stands as a testament to Sultan’s ability to capture the essence of fleeting moments and distill them into timeless works of art. In its ethereal beauty and evocative symbolism, this screenprint serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of nature and the transformative potential of artistic vision.

Printed flocking is a technique that adds texture and dimension to printed artworks, often enhancing their visual and tactile appeal. Flocking involves applying finely chopped fibers, called flock, onto a surface to create a velvety or suede-like texture. This technique has been used in various forms of art, including screenprinting, to add depth and interest to prints.

In screenprinting, flocking is typically applied as an additional layer of material onto the printed surface. After the primary image has been screenprinted onto the substrate, adhesive is selectively applied to specific areas of the design where flocking is desired. The flocking material is then applied to these adhesive-coated areas, adhering to the substrate and creating a raised, textured effect.

One of the advantages of printed flocking in screenprinting is its versatility. Flocking can be applied in varying thicknesses to achieve different levels of texture, from subtle to pronounced. Additionally, flocking materials come in a wide range of colors, allowing artists to add dimensionality and visual interest to their prints.

In terms of artistic expression, printed flocking can enhance the overall aesthetic and concept of a print. It can be used to simulate various textures, such as fur, feathers, or grass, adding realism and depth to the artwork. Additionally, flocking can be combined with other screenprinting techniques, such as layering or halftone printing, to create complex and visually striking compositions.

Beyond its aesthetic qualities, printed flocking also offers a tactile experience for viewers, engaging multiple senses and encouraging interaction with the artwork. The velvety texture invites touch and exploration, further immersing viewers in the artistic experience.

Overall, printed flocking in screenprinting provides artists with a versatile tool for adding texture, depth, and dimension to their prints, enhancing both the visual and tactile aspects of their work.

Donald Sultan – Master of Still Life