Hello there!
This week on Balboa Park, I took a detour into the world of linocut engraving—part experiment, part therapy. 🎨 It started as a playful escape from my usual artistic routines and ended up being an ode to imperfection and patience.
Inspired by a past series, Spit on a Stranger (yes, the Pavement song 🎶), I decided to turn a self-portrait into a two-color print. The process was both meditative and nerve-wracking—especially without a press, as I relied on a trusty wooden rolling pin to transfer the designs. Let me tell you, it’s not for the faint of heart! But that’s the joy of stepping outside the so-called comfort zone, isn’t it?
What’s even cooler? I used a treasure trove of Fabriano paper gifted to me by an old friend from high school. We hadn’t seen each other in 20 years, but reconnecting was heartwarming—and now, I have all the paper I could ever need for this new creative adventure.
This linocut journey has been a reminder to embrace playfulness in art, even when it’s not tied to a specific purpose or income. (Though let’s be real, my tattoos and illustrations are what keep the lights on. 💡)
If you’re curious,I’ve shared some snapshots of the process— rolling pin and all—just click play on those videos.
Listen to the episode to hear all about:
Why I love WhatsApp voice messages (and how they’re like mini-podcasts) (especially with my friends P., Nini and Oscar)
A day spent engraving at STRANGELAND with Trognette and neon color dreams.
The story behind the massive stash of Fabriano paper—and how it made its way to my studio (hello Enrico!)
🎧 Listen now
Until next time, may your creativity take you somewhere new. And if you’ve ever tried linocut printing, reply to this email and tell me all about it—I’d love to hear your stories!
Warmly,
Nicoz
PS: still not sure when and how those prints will be for sale. but if you’re in a Xmas spirit and you want to gift my work you can buy my merch or you can buy/gift a graphic journal class or a graphic journal membership
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