4.75" etching on Stonehenge paper
I'm still on my little etching path and reusing disc protectors as etching plates. As a result, a fish is born. Well, two, to be precise, and likely more.
I was looking at the acrylic protector and thinking how could I incorporate the central hole into the etching, then of course! The pupil of an eye. I scratched the image into the disc with a little etching needle. I torn some Stonehenge paper into 6 x 8 sheets, sprayed then and put them into a ziplock plastic bag to sit overnight and become pliable and plump. The next morning I coated the plate with Caligo oil based ink in Carbon Black (I love how intense and matte this ink is) then ran a print under the press. The first print was great (but a couple of tiny flecks of ink on the surface); the second print ok and the third a bit blurred as the paper was too damp.
4.75" original etching on stonehenge
With the second print, I added watercolour washes to it and like the effect as I can see the lines clearly through the pigment. Put next to each other they look like fraternal twins. Alike but different.
I'll be printing more of this image as long as the plate holds up. With acrylic plates the lines compress and burrs become less distinct as the run proceeds, so most are limited editions due to the more fragile nature of the plate.
I've ordered some acrylic plates and etching needles as well as some more printmaking papers to try. I'm familiar with a lot, but there are always new ones coming out and its good to keep testing and see what may become a new favourite.
5 comments:
How clever to use the hole in the center for the eye! It worked like a charm.
I am totally amazed and awed by this! I couldn't even begin to create something like this, and it's so beautiful, original and inspiring! I'll look forward to more posts that describe the whole process from the actual etching to what kind of spray you used, and how you came to be so accomplished at this technique!
what a good idea using the centre as an eye :)
Really like the coloured version, the colours really bring the print to life :)
Billie I'm trying to think up other ways to use that central hole now. Of course I could keep creating different types of fish I guess. :)
Katherine, this would likely be right up your alley, as your drawing skills are wonderful and the technique is simply drawing but in reverse, rather like creating a negative. Then the inking and printing is straightforward fromt here.
I haven't done a lot of etching and it can be hit and miss depending on the support and paper and ink and you do need a press to get a decent impression. Drypoint etching is great fun and I'd encourage you to try it sometime, I think you'd enjoy it.
I like both versions but have a preference for the plain print as I like the clean lines and simple shape. Not to say I don't like the coloured one, as it has a lot of interest and impact. I'll keep playing with them. I'll run out of cd protectors soon then have to go on to the plates.
Like the both but the etched pupil is great.
Post a Comment