Etching
Etching is an intaglio print making process that produces multiple images from the same metal plates the images are developed by corroding the metal plate with acid, using acid resistant grounds to protect the areas not to be etched. In other words I draw on top of the metal plate (Zinc) with a needle. This removes the hard ground and exposes the lines that I like to etch. The next step is to etch the plate in nitric acid. The action on the metal is called a bite. The amount of time in the acid, determines the deepness of the etch, on the plate. A deep bite would cause deep, dark line when printed, whereas a shallow bitten will give you delicate lines.
In the process of making my plates, I use a method similar to Aquatint. This enables me to create both areas of solid tone and gradations of tone from white through a range of greys to black. This modern Aquatinting is achieved by spry-painting the plates and stopping out the area that is not to be etched. This is combined with line etching to give weight and modelling to the image.
I do the printing on my own etching press. The etching paper is soaked in water and drained. This gives the paper better ability to pick up the ink. The plates are then inked and wiped. The plates are then placed on the press bed with the paper and protective blankets. This is rolled trough the press, then the finished etching is pulled from the plate.
The etchings are hand colored with acrylic paint. I have used a paper colour called Desert Sand a lot, this makes the white paint stand out. I am not attempting to create identical images or print editions. My goal is to give each one a unique character. This is achieved by inking the plates differently and by using different colours. I feel that each one is an original and therefore not numbered.
