Intaglio Type

I have always been fascinated by the classic photogravure process so popular with early twentieth century fine art photographers. Probably the chief deterrent has been the high toxicity of the chemicals used. The term, "many photographers died for their art", was a literal reference to the demise of many early practitioners who succumbed to chemical poisoning! The fairly recent introduction of photopolymer printing plates has resulted in a "greener" and safer approach to intaglio printing. For the last few months I have explored this as a possible printing alternative for my image making. The learning curve has been steep and has been exacerbated by the fact that some specialist equipment is required - such as vacuum press, UV light source, photopolymer plates, ink, etching paper, enlarged negatives and an etching press!

Plates inked and printed on Fabriano etching paper.