The multi-plate etching workshop is an exercise in producing an impression by printing more than one copperplate that requires plate registration and wet-on-wet printing. In addition the workshop is for participants that has attended an etching workshop at Warren Editions. The techniques that can be used in etching the two copperplates are hard ground -, soft ground etching, step-bite aquatint and spit-bite aquatint. What is important is that the multi-plate etching workshop is for those who has attended an etching workshop at Warren Editions. Also, welcome to attend are those that has learnt etching techniques at other studios. And, those that have been practicing etching in their own capacity. A necessity is experience in wiping a copperplate.
Below are examples of prints produced with two etched metal plates.
DATES for the multi-plate etching workshop
25 February, 4 & 11 March 2017 – three consecutive Saturdays.
TIMES for the multi-plate etching workshop
9am – 3pm
COST for the multi-plate etching workshop
R2,500.00*
Activities for the multi-plate etching workshop are;
Session One, Sat 25 February
To begin with on the first day the instructor will facilitate the group in planning with the print in mind. This will entail the participants plotting the process and tasks they must follow to produce a multi-plate print. The instructor will demonstrate the method of separating the elements in their image keeping in mind the task of constructing a print from two inked copperplates. Moreover, the instructor will show how to print two inked copperplates one-after-another wet-on-wet, by means of an etching press, so that the two plates register and the elements come together to form an impression. The purpose of the demonstration is to facilitate the participant in understanding the process that culminates in a final print – knowing what they are working towards. Despite the emphasis placed on deconstructing a particular image participants are also encouraged to approach the exercise in a free-spirited and impulsive manner.
Another purpose of the first day is to etch until completion a copperplate, using hard ground or soft ground, so as to contain the defining key-elements of the image that form the composition and structure; thereby holding the image of the final impression together. The participant’s proofing of the copperplate will be a necessity in order to ascertain the state of the etched copperplate; black ink will be available for this task.
Session two, Sat 4 March
On the second day of the workshop you will focus on etching the second copperplate, using aquatint, to completion. The second plate usually enhances or strengthens the composition and/or elevates the tonal range and/or introduces detail in the highlights and shadows in the event of the image being figurative. On the other hand if the image is abstract then the second copperplate’s purpose is to introduce another colour for tension and/or to blend with the colour on the first copperplate to form a third colour. The participant’s proofing of the second copperplate will be a necessity in order to ascertain the state of the etched copperplate; black ink will be available for this task.
Session three, Sat 11 march
On the third and final day of the workshop you will focus on mixing colours and printing the two etched copperplates as demonstrated on the first day (this will be demonstrated again to refresh memories). The instructor will demonstrate how to use a recipe when mixing colours. The goal of the day is to print at least two good impressions.
Need to know
- Size of two copperplates are 20 x 15 cm.
- Each participant is required to use their own source material / visual vocabulary for the workshop.
- Bring along to the workshop your own apron, etching needle and burnishing/scraping tools; if you don’t have an apron you can wear one from the studio and if you can’t purchase tools then you may use the tools from the studio. Art Sauce and Deckle Edge sells etching needles. Deckle Edge’s contact details are: 021 180 4442 and hello@deckleedge.co.za
Instructor for the multi-plate workshop is Zhané Warren.
Warren a master printer, is the founder/owner and director of Warren Editions, and is the head printer on many of the projects at Warren Editions.
*THE PRICE INCLUDES VAT AND MATERIALS & THE WORKSHOP CAN ONLY HOST 8 PARTICIPANTS.
To sign up for the multi-plate etching workshop, email Zhané Warren at we@warreneditions.com.
The TERMS for participating in the multi-plate etching workshop are;
Your participation in the multi-plate etching workshop is secured upon payment and Warren Editions cannot reimburse the fees.
If you cancel your participation 14 full days or more before the multi-plate etching workshop starts, the fee you paid can go towards the next multi-plate etching workshop or a different workshop. To participate in the next workshop, you will need to pay the outstanding amount – if the next multi-plate etching workshop fee has increased. Also, participation in the next multi-plate etching workshop depends on available spots. Alternatively, you can arrange to have a friend take your place or sell your spot.
If your cancellation is less than 14 full days before the multi-plate etching workshop starts and Warren Editions is unable to find a replacement, then 50% will be deducted from the original fee paid. In order to participate in the next multi-plate etching workshop you will need to pay the outstanding amount – bearing in mind that the next workshop fee might be more than originally paid.
Warren Editions reserves the right to re-schedule the dates of the multi-plate etching workshop that you have signed up and paid for or to cancel the multi-plate etching workshop.