Final copper plate etching with stippling on the heart and earth, aquatint on the sky and mezzotint on the pump.
Copper plate etching line work with stippling effect on heart.
Basic line work etched into the copper plate.
Compilation of all layers building up to the final print.
Copper Plate Etching, Aquatint & Spit Bite
This piece showcases an etching on a copper plate, utilising a blend of techniques for the desired outcome:
- Hand-Drawn Details: Basic sketches and outlines laid the groundwork for the composition.
- Aquatint Shading: Used primarily on the pump, this method added dimension through shading.
- Timed Acid Baths: To achieve the sky’s gradient effect, the plate was immersed in acid baths for varying durations.
- Stippling: Applied on the heart and earth, stippling provided intricate detail and texture, further enriching the design.
Although I’m content with the majority of the design, the pump could benefit from more refinement, ensuring it matches the detail of other elements. The design aims to comment on our global dependence on oil, likening it to the vital sustenance Earth provides us. Future iterations may delve deeper into this theme to communicate it more clearly.
If you have questions or queries about the shown artwork/design, please feel free to contact me.