Oak Gall Ink Publication

2015. Litho Print on recycled 150gsm paper.

In 2014, I began to research and test out making Oak Gall ink. Oak Gall Ink, also commonly called Oak Iron Ink, is incredibly light fast black ink made from tannic acid and ferrous sulphate. Oak Galls are small growths sighted on oak trees which are caused by a parasitic wasp.

Many important documents such as the Dead Sea Scrolls, the first IOUs from the Bank of England and many artists’ drawings, used this ink due to its unique characteristics. When on a residency at Hestercombe, I created a small publication explaining; the history of the ink, how to identify different galls and a DIY recipe. This work also spurred a series of drawings using the ink (Blind view series) and hosting various workshops to share this information.

If you are interested in purchasing this Publication they are £5 including P&P. [Post to UK only]

Please contact me at jolathwood@gmail.com for further information or if you want the booklet sent outside the UK.

A6 folded out to A3, Edition of 1000

Photography - Paul Blakemore

Commisioner - Hestercombe Gallery and Gardens