These artworks are part of the Sustain series. To connect the themes in my project to the history of American vegetable gardening, especially the WWII era victory gardens, where Americans grew 60% of their produce during the war, Ivana creates artworks with a vintage aesthetic. She wants to evoke a sense of nostalgia for a time when more people grew food in the backyard and community gardens. Ivana innovated a technique using mixed media and digital photography image transfer on aluminum to create these unique artworks in warm tones that recall the historic tintype process. Subtle inclusions of the contemporary urban environment connect us from our past to our present and the artworks highlight a means to a more sustainable future. To learn more click here to read the full artist statement
Leeks in Late September
Leeks in Late September
Do you remember a moment when you pulled leeks from the soil and held them in your hands, feeling the weight of roots still clinging to soil? Do you recall cooking your favorite dish with the deep flavor of leeks? This artwork captures those memories. You can feel the the care in those hands cradling the harvest. It celebrates the profound connection between gardener and garden, the timeless cycle of tending and gathering that has sustained humans for generations.
Created through an innovative mixed media technique, this unique artwork combines digital photography with acrylic paint and image transfer on aluminum. The warm sepia tone evokes historic tintypes. Every detail is rendered with luminous clarity. The delicate roots fan out like fine threads. The layered leaves cross and overlap. You can almost feel the cool earth still clinging to those roots. Smell that sharp, clean leek scent. Sense the satisfying weight of a good harvest in your hands. The vintage aesthetic connects you to generations of gardeners who understood their direct relationship with the soil.
Envision this powerful artwork in your kitchen or dining space. It is more than decoration. Your guests will pause when they see it. They'll be drawn to the intimate detail of those hands holding the leeks. For gardeners and foodies like you, this piece speaks directly to your values. Place it where you prepare meals. Let it remind you of the interconnected web of life that brings food to your table. This artwork transforms your space into a celebration of appreciation for great food and connection with the earth.
“The leeks are one of my favorite late harvest veggies. They take a long time to mature and are tolerant of light frost. , They are an important ingredient for creating savory plant based soups, stews, casseroles, and sautes. So when they are ready to pick, I am very eager to get them into the kitchen and start cooking.
The sun sets early in late September. I noticed one afternoon how beautiful the late afternoon light highlighted the textures and linear patterns of the leeks long leaves waving in the wind. I was inspired to create this “Leeks in Late September” artwork to celebrate the harvest.”
This signed and numbered limited edition mixed media 8" x10" artwork is part of the Sustain series, created with archival materials for lasting beauty. It is coated in an UV light protection spray. Only 20 will ever be handmade by Ivana. Due to the handmade process, expect the edges of the image to vary slightly. The watermark is only for internet display and will not be on your art. There is a slight surface texture which results in small highlights when photographed. If you need help to envison how it will look a free digital mockup is available so you can see exactly how it will look in your space before adding it to your collection. Contact Ivana for this service.
Currently no. 1/20 is available for you to enjoy.
