Eleanor Healy-Wills Studio-Gallery
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Etching Gallery  (Intro  ) ... select from... Intro Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4
Click for larger view of Ascending angel Copperplate etching involves several steps, the numerous complexities of which form an integral part of the creative process. The work is sometimes based on an existing sketch, but many of Eleanors etchings begin with a subjective idea or simple form, usually with some symbolic meaning.
This idea is then developed and explored on the prepared plate in a series of drawing and etching processes involving the various techniques such as open bite, aquatint and line etching. Once the process begins it can lead almost anywhere, as long as there is still copper remaining on the plate. There is an amazing potential for the unknown in trying to control the depth of bite, with temperature, time and the age of the acid. The unpredictable nature of the medium holds part of the creative tension in which the work comes into being.
The development of the copper plate is not the end of the creative process, and as the etchings are being individually hand printed, the artist continues to explore the subtle variations in colour and depth in search of the perfect print.
Colour can be applied to the plate in one or more stages before the impression is made (the élé poupé technique), or may be hand painted after an initial single or multi-colour printing.
 Click for larger view of Trees have their own music Click for larger view of Trees have their own music
Two prints from the same plate.
Some works are further enhanced by the delicate application of 23 carat gold leaf, to draw out a quality of light not possible using other techniques.
Final prints are produced in a limited edition run (usually 45 - 50 prints), however on some editions there may only be a few available - unique prints that occur when the colour variation is so subtle as to be beyond direct control.
Such subtlties of colour and light are difficult to appreciate when viewing works on-line, so if there is anything that appeals, you are assured that a trip in person to the artist's gallery will be well rewarded.

A sample of etchings available are displayed over several pages in the following gallery, as well as appearing in the appropriate theme gallery pages accessed from the buttons on the gallery index page. The most recent additions to the etching collection appear on page 4 of the gallerry.

Enter the etching gallery...

Unframed etchings allow for standard postal delivery, and these can be ordered by phone or email if you are unable to come to the gallery in person. Please contact Eleanor for all your enquiries.
The copper plate etchings are individually hand printed by the artist, in a limited edition (~50).
Printed on 100% acid free paper, some prints are hand coloured and gilded with 23 carat gold leaf.
© All images Copyright by Eleanor Healy-Wills.
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