Barkskins

Tree bark, to me, is a marvel. Each tree is unique. Its bark is a living skin, smooth, gnarled, crimped or layered. Paper-thin or iron-hard, deep and creviced or flat, silk-like and sensual.

Blush pink, grey, mottled and patterned like a watercolour, deep red ochre, rainbow hued or black, pitted and furrowed. Burnt, peeling or bursting with new growth.

The textures of each are different, each a work of art. Creatures of all sizes live on and inside it. Its complex surface often acts as its irrigation, moss and lichen grow on it. It is home to many and an ongoing inspiration to me.