The Giant Hogweed (‎Heracleum mantegazzianum) is an example of an invasive species that both multiplies rapidly and presents hazards to unwary humans who encounter it. Its large size is also a physical and metaphoric representation of the threat that invasive species present to ecosystems.

 

With the expertise of the DEC's Hogweed Management Program and the coordination of Finger Lakes PRISM, we made a print of Giant Hogweeds. Using appropriate precautions, the plants were laid on paper coated in cyanotype emulsion. After a 40-minute exposure to UV, the plants were removed and the paper was washed. The finished print is fifteen 22"x30" panels and is over 9 feet tall and 7.5 feet wide.