Open Call for printmakers: Non-Toxic Electro-Etching Workshop

Open Call for printmakers in the Electro-etching Workshop Residence in Canary islands: Non-Toxic Electro-Etching Residency Program.

An opportunity to take part in recent experiences in the processes of electrolytic etching carried out by the artist and specialist Alfonso Crujera.

Since 2002 the artist Alfonso Crujera has been working in this workshop introducing printmakers from all over the world to the process of nontoxic etching. Author of the book Electro-etching handbook, a safe, non toxic approach. Today, the classic technique of intaglio engraving has been updated and reinvigorated by electrolytic etching, making the process of etching and engraving safer and ecologically sound while providing a wider range of expressive qualities and innovative possibilities on graphical effects. The use of this technique is simple and not necessarily expensive. The wide range of technical possibilities enables printmakers to develop their skills within and continuing their art process.
The Personal assistance as well as the friendly and family-like atmosphere including visits to the local contemporary art centres creates a pleasant work-friendly atmosphere.

Program
The artist became familiarised with the history of electro-etching, the theoretical foundations of electrolysis, the basic principles of electrolytic etching and their practical applications in the graphic arts, and the benefits of using non-toxic techniques in print-making in practice during her/he stay at the workshop-residence, the artist will learn how to install an electrolytic etching unit, step by step.
•   The electrolytic tank
•   Preparation of the electrolyte
•   Voltage and amperage
•   Preparation and de-greasing of the plate
•   Etching lines
•   Electrotint tones of open bite without resin powders or asphalt
•   Graphite ink resist for lines, electrotint and softground
•   Galvanised relief lines
•   Galvanised tonal effects
•   Galvanography
•   Passive electro-etching
•   Passive electro-etching on a zinc plate
•   Safety rules

Location
The residency-workshop is located in the vicinity of the biosphere reserve of the island of Gran Canaria (Canary Islands, Spain). With excellent views to the Atlantic Ocean is surrounded by a quiet, natural environment, ideal for reflection and creation.

Costs
This workshop-residency is a private organization, and it does not provide grants to the artists. The artists must secure their own funding. The Residency is happy to assist artists seeking grants in their countries by providing a letter of invitation.

How to apply
See their residency profile for more information.