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Here I will take you on a journey through the vibrant world of natural dyes, from sourcing and preparing plant materials to experimenting with different printing techniques. Let’s dive deeper into history, science and artistry of working with living botanical materials.

It starts with a walk in nature, whether I’m wandering through my garden or exploring the forests in my near vicinity. Branches, kaleidoscope of shapes, the intricate design of leaves, the textures of earth, they all bring the spark of inspiration for creating an artwork or textile design. I gather various plant material, transforming the casual walk into a quest for inspiration – an adventure that stirs the artist within.

Creating artworks with natural, plant-based materials is a process that requires understanding of the qualities of the materials at hand, and harnessing their possibilities to the desired result. An experience akin to alchemy, where we blend elements to make something aesthetically compelling, soul-nourishing and meaningful.

Some of my local dye plants; Photo Tanja Stanković

The backbone of the entire process is the preparation of the canvas or textile. Treatment with mineral and metal salts is the first crucial step, drawing upon the rich historical knowledge passed down through generations. These minerals are not mere tools; they can dynamically react with the dyes and phytochemicals present in the plants and trees, and thus modify the final color. For instance, just a hint of iron can transform the red hues of Madder (Rubia tinctorum) into shades of magenta or deep purple, while yellows can morph into olive or forest greens. Such alterations illustrate the delicate interplay of nature’s own chemistry – an art within the art of creation.

Modification of yellow dye from pomegranate skins with iron; Photo Tanja Stanković

Once the canvas is prepared, the creative phase begins – with botanical contact printing. The plant material is layered on the canvas, folded into a bundle and then steamed from 1 to several hours, depending on the thickness and the size of the bundle.

The current style of my printing with botanical material is the result of numerous experimentations undertaken during the last six years. So far, I have performed numerous tests, exploring the spectrum of colors and imprints that various plants can yield.

In the next step, the prints are introduced to dyes. The moment when a botanical print engages with the dye is nothing short of transformative – offering a new canvas altogether. Some colors embrace contrast, while others might cloak or soften the existing print.

Detail of a print – The finished artwork with red dye from Rubia Tinctorum

This intricate play between colors and prints is a slow and methodical process that includes careful planning, foresight and precision. Yet the end result can still be unpredictable. The living temper of the dyes and pigments is here to also remind us of the variability of the world around us. External factors, such as light, moisture, and even the specific conditions of the harvest, can influence the final outcome, showing that nature’s work is an ever-evolving process.

In this artistic journey, I feel indeed as a co-creator, showing the delicate interplay of art and nature’s organic elements and colors, woven through time, space, the elements, the earth itself.