How I Made the Coyote Call Bandana

June 17, 2024

This bandana design was made with a mix of traditional and digital methods.

Why Make It

Making the Coyote Call print was an exploration in play, but I felt I could push the elements further to be more than fine art. I chose a 22" bandana as my medium and began to pull pieces of it and my Spring Ocotillo print in order to create the repeating pattern. The process started by singling out each color layer and selecting the pieces, such as the desert plant, I would keep.

Asymmetrical Design

With my pieces digitized, I experimented with layout. I loved the way the mountains flowed together in the square shape, and although you would expect them to be the exact same on all four sides, you’ll find they are not. I varied the design as it continued around, much like I left the one desert plant a different color. I don’t believe in having perfect symmetry in my work. In fact, I prefer to leave a little bit of imperfection. It makes the design feel familiar and holds space for the imperfections in us all.

Creative Application

Considering the design would be on a bandana, I replicated the desert plants on the outside line. This helps give an organic, abstract look when rolled or tied, and furthers the narrative of the landscape when it's laying flat. Finally, I had the design screen printed rather than inking a block and stamping each bandana. While there are many different ways to transfer an image onto a surface, I felt screen printing was best suited for this project as the process is faster and you can barely feel the difference between the fabric and the ink.

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