Electro-etching introductory course at the workshop elmonodelatinta. Madrid.
From 5th to 7th Dicember 2014.
Since July 2011, when the first workshop of electrolytic etching was given in Madrid, we haven´t had the opportunity of given another one until the late autumn of 2014 in this very same studio. Fortunately, the printmakers who attended had a great knowledge of traditional etching techniques, a fact which allowed them to easily assimilate the electrolytic processes we practiced. Some of them were aware of the technique through my Electro-etching Handbook. Even two of them had taught themselves with the help of this publication and brought their proofs to comment them.
Four of the seven artists came from Zaragoza and Catalonia to Madrid to learn this technique. I am very grateful for their effort and their interest.
Program
• History of electro-etching
• Basis of electrolysis and electro-etching
• How set up an electro-etching unit from the beginning*
• Preparing the electrolyte
• Voltage and amperage
• Electro-ething step by step
• Preparing and degreasing the plate
• Acrylic-based ground
• Graphite intaglio ink hard ground
• Safety rules
* You do not need any previous knowledge of electricity
During the course the artists received theoretical information on electrolysis applied to etching. How to set up an electro-etching unit. How to prepare the plates for etching with electrolysis, etching lines and electrotint of open bite for tonal areas. The application of graphite ink varnish for drawing lines and tones. Semi-dry electro-etching. There was even someone who took the opportunity to practice galvanized microdots.
The pictures by Arnau Casanoves show the passive electro-etching process on a copper plate made by Paula Cabildo. See below the print.
Electrolyte concentration 250g/litre water. Voltage 0.5 V. Bite time 60 minutes.
Sentada. Semi-dry electro-etching and drypoint lines, on a copper plate. 12.5 x 20 cm.
Fotos del taller y grabados
