SWARM (Mix 1)

Swarm 1. Etching with Aquatint, Intaglio Print. Created from a swarm of mini copper plates.

2025

TITLE : Swarm 1 (Etching With Aquatint)

EDITION SIZE : 20.

ART (PLATE SIZE): Selection of 5, hand cut copper plates (1.5 cm to 4 cm)

PAPER: Hahnemühle Etching Paper. 300 gsm. 4 deckle edges. Natural White. Cold pressed acid free (4.5" x 6.5”)

INK: Strong & Soft Black Etching Ink.

MOUNT: Size: 5" x 7” (Aperture 3.5” x 5”)

Intaglio etching is a labour intensive printmaking technique that involves incising a design onto a copper plate, with a sharp point. It is then etched in Ferric Chloride, which bites the design into the copper plate. This was repeated 3 times on these plates.

In addition, an acrylic sprayed aquatint is used to create areas of tone within the broader lines & dots.

The plate is then inked with etching ink. The ink sits in the grooves, whilst the surface ink is wiped off. The ink is then drawn from the incised lines, onto dampened paper, using an etching press.

Each print may take up to an hour to produce.

These highly detailed, intricate plates ensure each print is unique, making every piece a true one-of-a-kind etching.

I print in small editions, keeping the work precious and limited

The piece features a stylised beetles in our signature drawing style (a mix of geometry & organic lines, with fine lines and micro dots)

This insect plate features a beetle with a tooth-nosed snout & a tetrahedron.

The triangle plate features a repeat pattern of impossible triangles.
This print is part of my Insect - Platonic solids Etching Collection.

The Tetrahedron is also known as a triangular pyramid.

The Tetrahedron represents the element of Fire and is linked to the Solar Plexus; the centre for personal power and acceptance. It creates the natural balance between the physical and spiritual. Each side sits flat, no matter how it is turned, making it the perfect symbol for balance and stability. It is also linked to creating change.

Etching With Aquatint