Hotchiwitchi Print
Hotchiwitchi - the Romany word for hedgehog, an animal traditionally loved by travelling peoples, also called 'Pal of the Boor' (brother of the hedge). It is said there was a Romany tradition of roasting hedgehogs on the fire, wrapped in clay.
Hedgehogs, like Travellers, have in the past also been unfairly and superstitiously accused of stealing (apples on their spines, milk from cows at night) and I used this folklore as inspiration in this drawing, made in 2010. Instead of apples though, this powerful hedge-dweller has collected amulets and talismans. In this drawing I attached amulets to the hedgehog's spines to acknowledge the wisdom and potent magic in the creature itself and all it stands for.
Printed on 100% recycled 285gsm (card weight) parchment-coloured Context Birch paper. A beautiful quality warm and earthy print. The paper has very fine inclusions in it, giving it a handmade feel.
On the back is printed the title and details of the image.
The last picture shows you the image most clearly, though the actual paper background is cream/off-white which gives the image an added warmth, as you can see in the first photos.
HOTCHIWITCHI is available in two sizes: A4 (11.7" x 8.27") and 7" x 5"
It will come packed carefully in a cornstarch sleeve and a sturdy envelope.
© Rima Staines 2021