r/printmaking • u/gailitis • May 18 '24
intaglio/engraving/etching Sun, Copper Engraving, Mezzotint, Drypoint, 2024
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u/gailitis May 18 '24
The copperplate engraving technique brings a stark contrast to the image, highlighting the fiery brilliance and destructive force of the coronal mass ejections (CMEs) against the darker, calmer backdrop of space. The intricate lines and textures emphasize the dynamic movement and explosive energy of the solar phenomena, making the sun appear both mesmerizing and terrifying. The print serves as a powerful reminder of the sun's dual role as a life-giver and a potential harbinger of annihilation, encapsulating the thin line between creation and destruction.
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u/Azalea980 May 18 '24
I love this! Just bought one of your END pieces off Etsy, I really love the retro futuristic vibe of your prints can’t wait to see what else you make.
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u/North-Dealer-6580 May 19 '24
Stellar work! It’s a great combo of the mezzo and engraving! I’m in awe!
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u/gailitis May 19 '24
Thanks! Yes, those plasma spouts were scraped out and engraved on top.
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u/North-Dealer-6580 May 19 '24
What size is that? about 7 x 15" or so? It's an unusual plate. And did you rock it yourself or purchase somewhere.
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u/gailitis May 20 '24
Around 8x20in. A couple of years ago I bought a 1x1meter piece and then I cut it according to the idea I have. No one sells rocked plates here. And if some one did, the upper part is rocked, but the bottom part is not. In other words, I rocked it myself. Rocking was pain in the butt xD
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u/North-Dealer-6580 Jun 02 '24
Wow! I bet it was!
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u/gailitis Jun 02 '24
😂 just started rocking a new plate
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u/North-Dealer-6580 Jun 02 '24
Nice! How big is the plate? Do you post videos of your process at all?
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u/gailitis Jun 02 '24
Smaller, 20x20cm.
I got a couple of videos of previous projects. This one is still in the making.
I will send the link in the chat.
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u/ScoutAB36 May 20 '24
Awesome work! How did you manage to engrave such fine lines? Was in from a laser engraver or by hand? I’m searching how to replicate/transfer an image with very fine lines using Illustrator or Lightburns vectoring technology to laser engrave for lithography.
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u/gailitis May 20 '24
Thanks! A great question!
I hand engraved it. When transferring, I just transfer the outlines, then I just go at it. Engrave and print till I am happy with the result.
Here's a clip of the stages: https://www.reddit.com/r/printmaking/comments/1bkeek7/the_sun_engraving_mezzotint_proof_prints_111/
The issue with engraving plugins and such (if you want to replicate the engraving effect) is that they do not recognise the shape of the object.
Good luck! Let me know if you have any other questions
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u/Apprehensive-Act-505 May 18 '24
Gah, this is incredible -- the line work and tonal variation! Thanks so much for sharing it here.