ETCHING | Tetrahedron Beetle

The piece features a stylised beetles in our signature drawing style (a mix of geometry & organic lines, with fine lines and micro dots)

This insect plate features a beetle with a tooth-nosed snout & a tetrahedron. 

The triangle plate features a repeat pattern of impossible triangles.

This print is part of my Insect - Platonic solids Etching Collection.

The Tetrahedron is also known as a triangular pyramid. 

The Tetrahedron represents the element of Fire and is linked to the Solar Plexus; the centre for personal power and acceptance. It creates the natural balance between the physical and spiritual. Each side sits flat, no matter how it is turned, making it the perfect symbol for balance and stability. It is also linked to creating change.

This piece is printed using a copper etching plate.

Intaglio etching is a labour intensive printmaking technique that involves incising the lines & dots onto a copper plate, with a sharp point. It is then etched in Ferric Chloride, which bites the design into the copper plate. This was repeated 3 times on this plate. Along with 3 aquatint sprays (which create a tooth within the lines)

The plate is then inked with etching ink. The ink sits in the grooves, whilst the surface ink is wiped off. The ink is then drawn from the incised lines, onto dampened paper, using an etching press. 

Each print takes a long time to produce.

These highly detailed, intricate plates ensure each print is unique, making every piece a true one-of-a-kind etching.

I print in small editions, keeping the work precious and limited. 

Please Note - Each print may vary slightly , as they are individually printed by hand.   

The Making of ; Project Notes