Over the years, many artists from Argentina have shown interest in attending our electro-etching program, but Rafael Álvarez (1959) was the first to manage to secure a place. For that, I congratulate him. It was also tremendously lucky for me to run into this professor of physics at the National Technological University in BA and the University of Buenos Aires, also professor in Jewellery at the Municipal Institute of Ceramics of Avellaneda, Buenos Aires. A jewellery artist and expert in electro-forming (metallic coating via galvanisation of objects by electrolysis). Rafael was not a printmaker. He was interested in applying his knowledge in electro-forming to electro-etching, and his starting-place was to be our workshop-residence. After a short but intensive five-day stay and aided by his previous knowledge of electrolysis, he etched and printed five plates, practising the basic processes of electro-etching with the intention of applying the process to his electroformed pieces of jewellery.
We also had the opportunity to discuss our experiences of electrolysis, to re-confirm mutually specific developments within electrolysis both in engraving and galvanising and to corroborate that the electrolytic procedures, both when galvanising and when etching, are equally effective at very low voltage.
Thanks to his knowledge, we electroformed a few three-dimensional pieces following his procedures, since my personal experience in galvanization has been limited to graphic ends, mainly in galvanography, and other processes. All these processes are carried out on flat plates that are destined at reproducing the image in ink on paper as a print. Electroforming, however, includes objects made of various different materials, that are generally non-conductive, and that give rise to a metallic object, in this case, in copper.
This exchange of electrolytic processes has proved to be an enriching experience for both of the artists.
Pictures from the workshop
Rafael Álvarez speaks about his experience in the workshop-residency
When I decided to travel to the Canary Islands for the residence for the workshop about Electro-etching, I was very enthusiastic and eager to know deeply the engraving technique.
I am a jeweler and work in electrolytic processes, as well as, drawing and painting. I was very interested in knowing Alfonso Crujera work, since it resembles the work I do in electroforming, but in order to learn etching technique.
Throughout my residence I enjoyed a beautiful and a fully equipped workshop and, of course, Alfonso´s knowledge and demands. He guided me as a true Master of Art. I made the most of his huge experience in electro-etching and I took my first steps in this technique (etching process, electrolytic aquatint, embossing and so on).
I am very happy and I thank Alfonso and his wife, Amparo for their hospitality and dedication.
I will practice electro-etching, and gain experience in order to return to a new residence.
THANK YOU!
Rafael Álvarez
Argentina
Rafael Álvarez's electro-etching
Rafael Álvarez preparing a piece for electroforming, and electroformed pieces
More information about Rafael Álvarez