More Art Inspired By Plant Swellings

A potpourri of works inspired by parasitic plant materials:

Grace Willard, Oak Gall Interior, 2006

Of course there is one very common artwork made from oak galls, Ink! Oak gall ink (also called Iron Gall Ink) has been used for centuries as a vital component  to create indelible and intensely dark ink. Though commonly associated with medieval monks writing on vellum, many modern artists use it today. Susan Deakin envisioned the interior of a 147 year old oak tree by painting out tree rings using wasp gall ink:

Susan Deakin, Oak Tree Contemplation, 2010 (artist at work)

Susan Deakin, Oak Tree Contemplation, 2010

There are countless recipes for making gall ink out there. Next year I hope to team up with a friend of mine who is an ink expert, and make some ourselves!