This was my first experience etching zinc with acid. Printmaking wasn't available where I did my TAFE studies and I have only since learnt some aspects of printmaking at various short workshops at BIA and Impress.
I found the drawing of the image somewhat challenging - the knowledge that I couldn't erase my lines like I could with pencil was somewhat off-putting. I was helped by first tracing an outline of my pre-prepared image onto the plate.
The workshop was for me an introduction to the process of etching; its quite technical and lengthy compared to monoprinting. I didn't particularly like having to keep track of the sequence and timing for the acid baths to create the aquatinting effects - knowing that if I made a mistake, my plate could potentially be ruined. I'm also rather impatient with the inking of the plate - applying the ink then wiping it off just seems so.... pointless! It took me the whole day to create one plate for a few prints - I now have a new appreciation of the process of etching. Below are photos of my print from the etching workshop - my 'magpie'.
And now that I've had my big whinge about etching, I'm keen to explore more of aluminium etching. I was introduced to this low toxic process by Judith Rosenberg several years ago and am keen to develop my skills. I plan to use etchings over the top of my monoprints. But I can assure you that monoprinting for me is my first love!
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| Magpie etching - 1st proof, line only |
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| Magpie etching - with aquatint |