Each of my etchings begins with a pencil sketch of my original idea. Through a lengthy process, the design is transformed in minute detail and eventually acid-etched onto a metal plate.

To print the acid-etched design, ink is hand-rubbed into the etched lines of the plate. The inked plate is then placed on the "bed" of a special etching press. A dampened piece of 100% English rag, cream-colored paper is carefully placed onto the inked plate. Felt "press blankets" are placed on top and the whole thing is run through steel rollers. Under great pressure, ink is then transferred from the metal plate to the paper.

The print is air-dried and then individually hand-colored with watercolors and gold gouache highlights. Upon completion, I personally sign and number each etching in pencil.

Etching is a long and complex process. On average, individual etchings have required anywhere from a week to two months for the entire process, from design to metal plate. It is the richness and detail that can be achieved through this medium that make it all worthwhile!