Intro to Polymer Photogravure
with Clay Harmon
$100 HCP members / $125 non-members
April 3, 12pm -5pm

This class is an introduction to the polymer photogravure process, the modern successor to the difficult Talbot-Klic copperplate process that was in common use in the late 1800s and early 1900s. We will use a modern polymer-coated plate to create an intaglio-etched surface that will be inked with an oily printer's ink and then wiped, leaving ink in the varying depths of the recesses of the plate which will then produce the photographic gradation of tones that makes the photogravure one of the most beautiful and permanent of the continuos tone photographic printing processes. The beauty of the polymer method is that the etching of the plate is done with tap water instead of the more chemically dangerous mordant used in the traditional copperplate photogravure process. The use of a digitally printed positive on clear film also allows the student to concentrate more on the technique of inking and wiping plates rather than spending time making a perfect positive in the darkroom. We will have enough time for each student to make at least one plate and several prints from that plate.

This class will take place at Clay Harmon's studio in Kingwood, Texas. Directions will be emailed to registered students.

What to bring to class:
A thumbdrive with 3-5 images 5in x 7in or smaller at 360 dpi. We will pick the most suitable image for this process in the classroom.

Pre-requisites:
Knowledge of photoshop basics - editing a file, using adjustment layers and basic printing techniques.

This is a one day workshop. The class fee includes all materials needed.

This class will take place off-site at Clay Harmon's studio in Kingwood, Texas. Directions will be emailed to registered students.


Click here for a complete listing of Courses and Workshops in March, April, and May 2010.