Story behind the art of Elizabeth White-Pultz

29th Annual International

American Society of Botanical Artists and the Society of Illustrators

Berkeley's Polypore

Bondarzewia berkeleyi

I live in northern Manhattan and spend a lot of time in nearby Inwood Hill Park, home to some of the last mature forest on the island. It is there that I found the specimen of Berkeley’s polypore, Bondarzewia berkeleyi, growing at the base of an oak. While parasitic, causing rot in oaks and other hardwood trees, it also plays a role in breaking down dead material and returning nutrients to the soil. I find specimens growing each summer in the park.

I was struck by the size of this specimen; it was almost two feet in diameter. Its sculptural quality made it a perfect subject for my silverpoint drawing. I enjoyed rendering the subtle tones of the fungus’ many parts. It also forced me to work bigger than I normally do. The drawing is just about actual size. I normally work on a much smaller scale, particularly in my jewelry and enamel work. It really pushed me out of my comfort zone.  

I used a handmade paper from Twinrocker paper mill in Brookston, Indiana. The circular shape and deckled edge proved a perfect format for the subject. To draw with the silverpoint stylus, I needed to prepare the paper with a ground that has a slightly abrasive quality. This allows the stylus to leave a mark in the same way a pencil leaves a trace of graphite. In this instance I used casein paint. I then let the prepared surface cure for 2 weeks.

I love sharing my enthusiasm for silverpoint and metalpoint drawing. I’m honored to be included in the 29th ASBA International! 

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