Leaving Safety

Leaving Safety, etching
working proof

Ok, so by now most of you know that I am not the most patient person. This morning I was going to go to the print studio to print my editions for the two prints I am handing in on Tuesday. I arrived ready to go and found the studio filled with students from a beginning printmaking class. So, I decided to come back tomorrow and work when it's quiet.

I also decided that I couldn't wait until tomorrow to show you one of my prints. The photo is alright - it's only a working proof on newsprint. It combines three different techniques - a line etch, a soft ground pattern for the background and a spit bite aquatint (and a few hours of work...).   I love it!! Several times throughout the process I thought I had ruined it, but it turned out those "accidents" were all lucky ones! When I pulled the final version from the press, my breath caught for a second and I knew I had a keeper... 

I find it interesting that in drawing I work mostly realistically, in my paintings I have developed my own folksy style and in my etchings I now have the opportunity to develop my more abstract and edgy side. I think the materials lend themselves beautifully for abstract work. Add to that my love for layering, textures and surprises and I think I've found the direction I want to go in with etching. 

After I get my "good" prints done this weekend, I'll photograph them do another show & tell. 

But for now, I wish you a beautiful, peaceful and creative Friday!! 

P.S. The print reminded me of the quote I used in my very first blog post in March of 2009, and that's where the title "Leaving Safety" came from. Oh, how my life has changed since then...