Carnival Part 2 2004-2009
The Carnival Suite of etchings from 2004 to 2009:
A small selection of etchings based on the Carnival Pt 2 theme, created from 2004 to 2009. “Carnival” is inspired by travels, family, and relationships built over the years. Travels include the Comoros Islands, East Africa; Jaipur, Udaipur, Mumbai, and New Delhi in India. It is also a celebration of family and friendship. The selection of etchings is on copper, zinc, and steel plates. Various techniques are employed on both hard and soft grounds, including aquatint, sugar lift, and drypoint.
The sizes of the plates range from 50 x 50 cm to 10 x 10 cm and 20 x 30 cm to 20 x 20 cm. For more information about the artwork, visit: https://www.derekhill.co.uk/work/cat/carnival/
The works reflect everyday life, with various components contributing to the energy and organic nature of my painting. The narratives I create combine forms and shapes that add meaning to daily experiences. My collection, including “Feathers & Lace” on copper, is available for public and private exhibitions.
I use nitric and hydrochloric acids, each possessing unique properties. One penetrates broadly, while the other targets metal directly. Sometimes, I apply a Dutch mordant for a slower bite on copper, resulting in deep, black prints with clean edges.
The ground I use remains intact in the acid, enabling me to brush away bubbles precisely. I treat etching in acid like painting and drawing, while appreciating the personality of the printmaking medium.
I typically use 250- to 300-gram paper, choosing between velvet or rough depending on the subject.
Carnival playlist on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQteKPuE8QuNP86tZ3_aFq5pNkT8QeKRy&si=pWikLHfdsYA9LZqc
