Inspired by the Coast – The Black Pug Press

What inspires your prints and illustrations?

Nature in all its forms, but more specifically, my experience of being in nature. That could be walking with my dog on vast Cornish beaches (yes, I have a black pug!), wild swimming in remote sea pools, or trail running on the rugged trails that hug the coastline. Those breathtaking views from a clifftop, the clear, turquoise water of a secret cove, the exhilarating expanse and feeling of absolute freedom are what truly inspire me as an artist. I also love to capture the abundant wildlife of the region – whether on land or in the vast ocean that surrounds us.

Why is the South West Coast Path important to you?

I’ve lived in Devon for the majority of my life, spending my childhood holidays in nearby Cornwall, and my weekends at the local beach or horse riding. I’ve enjoyed so much time on the SWCP that it feels like my own back yard.

With age I’ve begun to truly appreciate all that we have to offer here in the South West. The coast path is both a sanctuary and a playground for me – a place where I get to destress and forget about everyday life, and of course, it’s where I draw my inspiration from. It’s been a saviour for both my physical and mental health at various times in my life.

How do your adventures in Devon inspire your creativity?

I feel so lucky to experience the special places we have here and I have a strong desire to share that with others. In my work I try to capture the beauty of this wonderful area and the joy it sparks. I’m an avid year-round wild swimmer and I love to express the freedom and camaraderie this encompasses for me. There’s nothing like taking a cold water dip under a full moon with a great group of like-minded women! Conversely, I attempt to highlight our insignificance in the vastness of this world – that feeling of being a tiny dot while running alone under big, open skies.

Tell us about the process of printmaking

Printmaking is the antidote to the current need for instant gratification. It’s a slow, mindful practice that can’t be rushed. I will initially sketch out my design and play with the composition until I’m happy with the final image. I’ll then trace the image and transfer it onto a lino block and carve away the negative space to produce the final design. The block is then inked up and the image printed using my press. Prints can be made from a single block and colour, or the lino can be carved and printed multiple times to create a multi colour reduction print. This process takes far longer and really is a true test of patience! There is something magical about seeing the finished print for the first time after you’ve been working on it for weeks.

When I’m time restricted I will pick up my iPad and create digital prints; this gives me the freedom to play with colour and texture. I will often create something digitally and then think to myself ‘I wonder if I can recreate this as a lino print?’. I like that challenge. I also love the process of transforming my prints into usable items such as enamel pins, mugs, and even swimwear.

What plans do you have for the future?

I’m excited to be running the London Marathon in April 2025 – this will be my first ever marathon and I’m raising money for the wonderful SWCPA. Over the next month I’m also hoping to create a new print inspired by the coast path with profits going towards my SWCPA fundraiser. It’s fantastic to have the opportunity to be able to give back to a wonderful cause that has given so much to me over the years.

You can sponsor Laura and find out more about her marathon training on her Just Giving page, here.