Reflections on Semester One

Saturday 23rd December 2023

This semester I have learnt etching and continued lithography, practiced letterpress printing and started making books again. It has been a busy and rewarding few months, having made over 100 individual prints of at least 10 different images drawn onto stone, copper and aluminium plate, litho plate, and lino.

I would not say I tried to manage my time well, but I spent enough time in the studios and started my portfolio early with research from week one. These are habits I hope to continue in my final semester.

The credit weighting on this semester was low, about 50 credits, with no art history modules, my main focus was learning printmaking techniques as well as keeping engagement with critique club, the silent auction and the bank vaults exhibitions.

I have found myself making more etchings than lithographs perhaps with the speed of etching, especially aluminium, compared to lithograph etching. I found the lithograph From Sunday 19th November Walk rewarding, although I etched it too strong. I am more often pleased with my etchings, and it is evident that I need to practice lithography.