Up close and touching

Abstract

The main thrust of this research project is to advocate ecological safety through the use of eco-friendly materials and processes in the practice of printmaking. This requires the printmaker to adopt alternative methods of producing the print matrix using photosensitive polymer plate and the natural elements of sun and water to expose and develop the plate. The traditional method of producing an etching plate includes acids and solvents and involves unhealthy exposure to many toxic elements. The photosensitive polymer plate offers a viable alternative to the traditional process with no discernible difference in aesthetic outcome and encourages a healthier practice. The research will demonstrate that, by utilising alternative strategies to produce the artwork for the plate, both physical engagement with tools, hand skills and digital graphic programmes can be deployed and can coexist to create a hybrid mix without diminishing the aesthetic outcomes.