Mimbres block print of a "Hummingbird" on handmade paper by Michael Colombo and Barbara Barkley

This is a block print of a "Hummingbird" from the Mimbres tribe which existed over a thousand years ago in the southwestern area of New Mexico. They created these images by painting them in their bowls. They are my favorite subjects to carve. Their work has a great geometric look and depicts the life they lived.

Each artwork has an informational backing that tells more about the piece. In addition, Barbara has created a flyer, that gives more information about the Mimbres people. This will also be included in your order. Artwork is signed with CB - Colombo/Barkley.

Each block is individually carved and hand printed by Michael Colombo. The print is done on Barbara Barkley’s handmade paper. Each completed artwork is mounted on a mat backed by foamcore.

NOTE ON FRAMING - If you would like to get this or any other print put onto one of Michael's hand made painted frames just convo us and a framed artwork will be put on reserve for you for 75.00 + shipping. This would be the price of a 12 x 12 inch frame and the block print of your choice. The frame adds 30.00 dollars to your block print order. A reasonable amount for a unique frame and expert mounting. Please allow 1-2 weeks for the completion of frame and block print to be completed.

GROUPINGS- If you have a larger space, we can also do vertical and horizontal groupings of the block prints of your choice on an archival mat or a custom handmade frame (see photos). Let us know your preferences and convo us. We can let you know prices and sizes and create a unique look for your home.

The photos show a visual of the block printing process. 1 - A sheet of Barbara's handmade paper is selected. 2 - An even coat of block print ink is prepared on the glass. 3 - The ink is rolled evenly across my carved block. 4 - The inked block is centered and placed on the paper. 5 - The paper is burnished to assure an even print. 6 - The completed print is carefully lifted from the block. After a period of drying the print can be mounted for display. Keep in mind that this visual only shows the printing process and not the many stages that Barbara goes through for creating the unique handmade paper sheets.

This block print was done on a 6-inch by 6-inch piece of handmade paper and mounted on a 12-inch by 12-inch mat board and foamcore.