The Mezzotint is classified as a Drypoint print. The velvet black finish, which is a characteristic of this process, is achieved by the use of a Rocker. The serrated edge of this tool applies a tooth to the plate and when completely rocked it will print black. This preparation of the plate can take a few days, depending on the size of the image and plate. The image is applied by scraping away the rocked surface with a Scraper tool. Chiaroscuro and subtle tonal effects can be achieved with this method.
Editions are kept to a limited amount, to retain the fine details
As a child my late Grandmother told me fairytales that have remained deep in my psyche and instigated a need to vocalise with imagery issues important to me. These images characterise some of the myriad emotions that make us human.
The velvety blackness and intimate scale of the Mezzotint provides an ideal looking glass for this dreamlike world.
Labels: mezzotint