The Salmon of Knowledge Print "Bradan"

Collagraph by Clare Keys

The Inspiration:

This work is based on the famous story of the Salmon of Knowledge; a story about the great leader of Irish warriors Fionn MacCumhaill. It was said that Fionn gained all his wisdom by being the first to taste the Salmon of Knowledge. There are variations of this legend throughout Ireland and Scotland, in some of the very earliest texts, so it was a tale well told around many firesides.

The Process:

Collagraphs are created by building up layers of different textures on a flat surface and varnishing to produce a 'plate', which is used to create one print at a time. Ink is applied by hand, then the plate is covered by Fabriano paper and put through a press. Each print is created by hand, and therefore variations will occur which means that every one is has its own unique characteristics. A highlight of silver leaf has been added along the salmon's back.

The plates are used for a limited edition of 15 prints and each one is signed, titled and numbered by the artist.  

A collection of cards featuring images from the collagraph prints and the legend can be found HERE. The full story of Bradan and Fionn can be found HERE