Dry Point Etching - Unframed Limited Edition of 10 Signed by Artist
This work, ‘Kete Kupenga’, is a drypoint etching that explores the weaving together of knowledge, connection, and survival. The ‘Kete Kupenga’ is an open-weave vessel made for carrying and gathering. Through the drypoint technique, I use line to mimic the interlaced structure of raranga; repetitive, rhythmic, and deliberate. The burr and texture of the etched plate hold the tension between strength and fragility, echoing the labour of mahi and the fine balance of what we catch, carry, and let go.
Drypoint etching is an intaglio printmaking technique where an image/ drawing is scratched directly onto a metal or acrylic plate using a sharp needle. The action of drawing raises a burr (a ridge of displaced material) along the lines, which holds ink and creates rich, velvety marks when printed. Ink is applied to the plate and then wiped so it remains only in the incised lines. The plate is then run through a printing press with damp paper, transferring the image onto the paper under pressure. Each print captures the delicate textures and expressive quality of the hand-drawn lines.
PAPER: Black Ink on Fabriano Paper
SIZE: Image (including signature, title and number: 440mm x 300mm, Paper: 700mm x 500mm
