The month long workshop of multiplate colour etching run by Swietlan N. Kraczyna came to its climax this afternoon with an exhibition of work produced by the students during the course. Although the term “students” can hardly apply in this case as all three are past students of Swietlan and artists in their own rights with their own particular methods of research and way of expressing themselves.

Work on display by Jesse Kauppila, Maya Hardin and Ashley Kanaley and of course by the master printer himself: Swietlan N. Kraczyna

Presented at the exhibition was the final version of the print from Swietlan celebrating the Lebanese Cedar Tree on the Fosso (article here) that was cut down recently

Jesse Kauppila was also on hand this evening to give a brief demonstration of a “colour explosion” a technique used by Goya amongst others to detonate resin held captive in a tube and then sprayed by the explosion onto a plate before dipping it in acid. Different length tubes giving a different spray pattern and therefore a different colour tone when printed.

Generale Maurizio Fioravanti and other representatives from the Brigata Folgore in Libano were in Barga this morning for the official handing over and blessing of the new Lebanese Cedar which has been planted on the Fosso to replace the centuries old tree which was cut down earlier this year as it finally had reached the end its long life. … new cedar tree planted – full article here

Etching out a living – A lost art on display by Swietlan N. Kraczyna source Still considered somewhat of ‘an outsider’ when compared to other more publicized art forms, the art of etching has always been surrounded by an air of mystery. Throughout its veiled history, it has often been seen as a ‘misplaced’ technique, searching for its role among the pillars of art, alchemy and artisanship.
While ‘noble’ art forms such as sculpture and painting could lead to hard-won fame and glory, creative etchings often served solely to win over women. more on this article “Etching out a living” here

The 2008 Summer Workshop of Multi-Plate Color Etching in Tuscany – July 2 – 31, 2008 site can be found here