Discovering Photo Etching (Tuesday Evening)

About this course

The course introduces photo etching, or photogravure, as a printmaking process combining photographic imagery with intaglio techniques. Participants will adapt photographs, drawings or other visual references for transfer, prepare positive images on translucent surfaces, and expose them onto light-sensitive emulsion applied to zinc plates. Teaching combines step-by-step demonstrations, guided studio practice and individual one-to-one feedback. The course covers the basic technical process and provides opportunities to develop source imagery into a portfolio of photo etchings.

What you'll learn

• Adapt photographic or drawn imagery into positive images suitable for transfer.
• Prepare light-sensitive emulsion on zinc plates and expose source images.
• Apply core photo etching and intaglio printmaking techniques.
• Develop source material into a portfolio of creative prints.

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for complete beginners, photographers exploring an alternative process, and learners with some prior experience who want to refine their skills. Participation involves developing personal source material through demonstrations, guided practice and individual feedback.

• No previous experience is required.
• Participants work from their own photographs, drawings or other visual references.
• Learners with prior experience can use the course to develop and refine their skills.

Before you go

• Bring digital photographs stored on a phone, USB device or hard drive, or bring drawings and other visual references.
• Paper, acetate and zinc plates are additional materials available to buy in the studio or college shop.