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
Globe Basil in April
Globe Basil in April
You kneel down to smell the first seedling of the season and feel the soft, delicate leaves between your fingers. Can you imagine the pungent basil aroma that releases when you brush against them? Picture the cool April air on your skin as you hear the rhythmic sound of a rake working the soil behind you. This tiny plant holds the promise of summer meals, fresh pesto, and caprese salads still months away. The vibrant green basil in the foreground contrasts against the muted tones of garden soil being prepared in the background. The smooth, luminous surface of the mixed media with photo transfer contrasts with the raw aluminum edges that frame this moment of anticipation. This artwork expresses the optimism held in a single seedling and the promise of abundance that begins with careful preparation.
Imagine this hopeful artwork in your kitchen or dining room, where it reminds you that even small urban gardens can produce remarkable harvests. Guests notice the neighboring homes visible through the fence and share their own stories of growing food in limited spaces or their plans for the coming season. The piece connects to that universal excitement every gardener feels when planting the first seedlings of spring. This artwork celebrates the anticipation of the growing season and the abundance possible in any backyard.
“Basil is one of my favorite herbs because it is so delicious and so easy to grow!
In this image titled “Globe Basil in April,” you can see the recently planted Globe Basil and also see my husband in the background preparing the soil to plant other vegetables!”
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.
