The Electro-etching workshop–residency introduces the artist to an alternative technique of intaglio etching, using a completely non-toxic electrical process. It offers one of the healthiest and most fascinating methods for etching copper, zinc, and iron plates. Among its many other advantages, the electro-etching process does not generate toxic gases, nor does it generate metalic residue that acumulates in the grooves and stops the etching. The mordant does not become exhausted by successive bites and it does not undercut the metal under the varnish. It completely eliminates the harmful spray from rosin or asphalt for aquatints. This techniques allows for a wide range of tonal effects, a surprisingly clean bite, increased control, all while minimizing the risk to the both the printmaker and the environment.
The electro-etching residency is held at the workshop and residence of the artist Alfonso Crujera, a master printmaker and specialist in the varied techniques of etching with electrolysis.
The residence is a traditional coastal farmhouse, lovingly restored by the artist. From the naturally lit studio, the residence and the balconies, you can enjoy the magnificent panorama of the sea and surrounding farmland. The area has a very pleasant and moderate subtropical climate all year round, with average temperatures ranging between 12-28ºC. In this natural environment, perfect for reflection and creativity, the artist has transformed the workshop into a workspace that is free from toxic emissions and respectful toward the environment.
The resident artists will be introduced to the fascinating process of electro-etching copper or zinc plates instead of using traditional acids. They will have access to the master’s direct, personal assistance and will get the opportunity to develop upon their current knowledge of non-toxic etching using electricity and applying these techniques to their own work. The artist will also learn how to assemble an electro-etching unit themselves, so they will be able to continue electro-etching in their own studios back home. The workshop is available to the resident artists round the clock.
Program
Theoretical content
• Rudiments of electrolysis
• History of electro-etching
• Principles of electro-etching
• The electro-etching unit.
• How set up an electro-etching unit from the beginning
(You do not need any previous knowledge of electricity)
• Preparing the electrolyte
• Voltage and amperage
Practical content
• Preparation of the plate, including filing and degreasing
• Hard ground, etching lines
• Electrotint with open bite
• Graphite resists for lines and electrotint
• Soft ground
• Semi-dry electro-etching
• Alternative resists (lithographic pencil, oxidation, splashing, electroplate, etc.)
• Galvanised lines
• Safety rules
Use of studio and professional attention
A reasonable timetable of four hours a day, five days a week is considered sufficient to guide and advise artists with respect to the technique of Electro-Etching. The workshop itself will be at their complete disposal 24 hours a day. All of the equipment required for etching (electrolytic unit, tools, acrylic and oil based resists, proof inks, solvents) will be provided at the workshop.
Language: English and Spanish
Grant explanation
One individual grants for one artists under thirty, Fine Arts graduates between 2015 and 2021 with Experience in intaglio printmaking.
The grant consists of free accommodation for two weeks and the trip to and from the airport to the residence at the beginning and end of the stay. This represents a saving for the artist of €625.
The artist selected must pay their travel fares to Gran Canaria, their meals, and profesinal advice in electro-etching.
Workshop and professional advice: €1,260.
Note: the price does not include papers and plates, which should bring them by the artist.
Health Insurance is obligatory.
Accommodation
There is a separate apartment with single room with private bathroom and shower. You have a kitchen for cooking and free access to Internet with a complete art library. See pictures from the residency.
Location of the residence-workshop
The island of Gran Canaria, Spain (How to arrive: Airport of Gran Canaria. IATA code: LPA)
Dates for the residence
• August 1st to 14th, 2022
Application Information
To apply for the grant artists should send an e-mail to electro@crujera.com including the Registration Form filled , copy of his/her graduation certificate, a CV and a brief biography, five pictures of prints and a statement of why he/she wants to attend the Electro-etching workshop (200 words maximum).
Download the Grant Registration Form
Application deadline
• December 19th, 2021
Selection process
A committee from the residence-workshop will make the selection of the artist based mainly on the applicant’s artwork and the statement of interest. Applicants will be informed before January 9th, 2022.
Acceptance of the grant *
On acceptance of the grant the selected artists must pay before January 31st, 2022 a non-refundable deposit of 30% of the amount for instruction (€378) in our bank account. This amount will be deducted from the total when the artist attends the residence. (The artists must pay the costs of the bank transfer).
* Failure to comply with these conditions will void any commitment of director of the residence-workshop with the selected artist, who will be replaced with another candidate.
• More information about the residence program
Graduate artists under thirty who have been awarded the scholarship to attend the residency-workshop in previous years.
• August 2019 Carissa Kalia Heinrichs (USA)
• July 2019 Kristina Key (USA)
• August 2018 Diego Vergara Mesa (Colombia / USA)
• July 2018 Anna Ólafsson (Iceland / Scotland – UK)
• August 2017 Cara Seccafien (Canada)
• July 2017 Laura Bollati (Italy)
• More information about the artists in residence • 2019 • 2019-2018 • 2017-2015 • 2014-2011
• International open call for applications to attend the residency from January to December 2022
For more information send an e-mail to electro@crujera.com
Download the Registration Form
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