An original linocut print of an otter swimming through underwater seaweed, hand-printed in layered teal and indigo oil-based inks. Printed by hand using a traditional reduction linocut process, each print features subtle variations that make every piece unique.

Inspiration

I’ve been lucky enough to see them in the wild several times—once near York and once while kayaking in Arran, Scotland. I watched one for at least ten minutes before it spotted us. On both occasions, I enjoyed the moment rather than taking photos.

More recently, I’ve watched a young otter diving for fish in the River Wharfe in Ilkley. I’m sure it’ll be a subject I’ll revisit. 

For this print, I worked from photo references taken at an otter rescue centre, alongside underwater video footage, and combined these with my own photographs of seaweed from the coastlines of Northumberland and Cornwall. It’s a subject I’m sure I’ll return to again.

How it’s Made

For this print, I worked from photo references taken at an otter rescue centre, alongside underwater video footage, and combined these with my own photographs of seaweed from the coastlines of Northumberland and Cornwall. It’s a subject I’m sure I’ll return to again.

As each print is handmade, slight variations in colour and detail may occur. This is part of what makes every print truly one of a kind.

Proudly handmade in Yorkshire. Artist Michelle Hughes retains all copyright.