Above is the print titled
"Stone Set" used for the 1970 stamp.
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In this section
of the print you can see that the bottom edge was etched for a
longer period than the top. The longer the plate is exposed to acid, the
more textured it becomes and holds more ink and therefore prints
darker. |
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By aquatint gradation, I am referring to my
favorite method of getting a continuous tone using an intaglio plate
making technique. I apply an aquatint in the usual way, but when I etch
it, I lower on edge of the plate into the acid solution and then slowly,
slowly lower the plate.
The acid begins work immediately on the first
contact. As I lower the plate slowly, it's like watching the ebb of an
incoming tide. The solution gradually covers all the plate, but the last
part gets a shorter exposure, while the first part gets the longest and,
therefore, is etched deepest. A deeper etch holds more ink, producing a
darker printing tone.
Good thinking!
- GM
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