River of Nerves | Original Lithograph Print (22.5 x 28)

Editioned Original • Hand-Pulled Lithograph • Cotton Paper

River of Nerves is an original hand-pulled lithograph by Amy Poole (Bridges), created as part of her early printmaking practice using oil-based lithographic ink on thick, pure cotton paper.

This is a limited edition work accompanied by a small number of artist proofs. Each print is individually produced through traditional lithography, resulting in subtle variations in ink density and impression.

One edition print is currently matted (30 x 27.5 inches), with additional unmounted prints and artist proofs available.

Inspiration

River of Nerves is a black-and-white lithograph that explores the relationship between body, landscape, and internal pressure through symbolic figuration.

Set within a forested environment, the composition depicts a figure emerging from water, draped across an indistinct surface that could be land, stone, or submerged structure. The ambiguity of setting allows the body to become part of the environment itself rather than separate from it.

Beneath the waterline, the figure transforms into linear forms resembling exposed structure and internal pathways. These lines become a visual metaphor for vulnerability, strain, and the sensation of being pulled between opposing forces.

From the darkness below, additional hands emerge, reaching upward into the water and interacting with these linear forms, introducing tension, resistance, and movement within the submerged space.

The work is intentionally rendered in black and white to preserve clarity, contrast, and emotional directness without distraction.

Composition

The composition is divided between surface and submerged space.

Above the waterline, a figure rests in a collapsed, exhausted posture across an ambiguous natural form within a forested environment.

Below the waterline, the figure dissolves into linear structures that suggest internal pathways and structural tension.

Dark negative space fills the underwater environment, where additional forms reach upward into the composition, creating directional contrast between collapse and resistance.

Medium

• Hand-pulled lithograph
• Oil-based lithograph ink
• Printed on thick cotton paper

Edition Information

• Limited edition lithograph prints
• Includes editioned works and artist proofs
• One edition print is currently matted (30 x 27.5 inches)
• Each print is unique due to hand-inking and press variation
• Signed by the artist (Amy Poole / Bridges)

Artwork Details

• Original lithograph printmaking work
• Image size: 22.5 x 28 inches
• Black and white composition
• Unframed (unless noted)
• Protected in archival sleeve for shipping
• Backed for safe transport to prevent bending or damage

About This Work

River of Nerves is an early major lithograph that reflects a deep investigation into structure, pressure, and the relationship between internal experience and external form.

It explores the boundary between human figure and environment, using the language of printmaking to translate sensation into line, contrast, and layered spatial tension.