This gem of a river is located in our Midcoast Maine backyard. Vibrant purple, peach, and teal ink captures the beauty of twilight as the sun silhouettes trees.
The artist credited for the image is Jane Berry Judson circa 1908 who graduated from Pratt Institute in 1904. While researching the artist, we came across a blog titled "The Blue Lantern: Arts Journalism for the Love of It."
There's a write-up regarding Judson's work, and a good point made about the composition of this image is as follows:
"Trees in Judson's works are real, they are individually rendered; [we] believe that they existed, that we are seeing what she saw."
The glowing line where the setting sun meets the tree line on the riverbank is a reminder of the artist's legacy. It will not fade if reproductions are made and her story is told.
This card is a store favorite.
- Measures 5" x 7"
- Blank inside
- Recycled paper
- Envelope included
Saturn Press was our first wholesale vendor, and we are happy to say the relationship continues to flourish after 13 years! The original owners were something special - art students - Jane and Jim who made a life together on a remote island in Downeast Maine. They prized custom-blended ink colors and the tactile experience of holding paper in the hand.
Through their catalog to stores like ours, they would share their values, which over 40 years at the pace of one paragraph a year, included a vast range of information from the sourcing of their paper to a sense of inclusive philosophy. For example, we will always remember the Chinese proverb they shared to express an ethos held dear by many makers like themselves: “May the slow overcome the fast.”
After working hard to develop their letterpress archives and spread their cards around the world, the time came to retire and consider other pursuits. It was our honor to be a “little sister” company down the coast, that even we set about writing letters to many of you to see if we might help find new owners to continue the legacy of Saturn Press, a truly remarkable venture in book arts.
Well, things really worked out for all of us who appreciate these charming cards. As we say goodbye to one era, it is a pleasure to welcome in a new era. We’d like to extend big cheers to James and Deirdre of Kent, Connecticut who have taken over the illustrious company and are making it their own!
Enthusiasm for a creative way of life and goals to help perpetuate one of our most sentimental traditions motivates them. When they came up to Maine to pick up the antique letterpresses from Swan’s Island, they surprised us with a visit at the barn. It was a beautiful Summer day, and all of our spirits were sparkling like the sun. There were good feelings all around.
Their dream-come-true family business - as their son and son-in-law have now joined them - is going very well so far. After establishing their new print shop in a restored church, the cards are just as bright, cheerful, fun, and reflective as they have ever been.
It is such a joy to witness hardworking and caring people who are willing to steward a dream just as well as a business! Thank you, James and Deirdre, for all you are doing. Keep up the good work!
