After an extensive period of learning, troubleshooting and testing I am finally embarking on a series of prints made using the polymer photogravure method. Getting to this point has been a marathon that has involved huge amounts of false starts and failures. After printing endless grey charts to properly linearize the output, seeing the first actual image tests is so exciting.

For some time now I have been frustrated by the over-cleanliness of digital printing. Whilst it is undoubtably the best, most faithful, probably more archival than any traditionally printed photograph, I have nevertheless coveted images that have a bit more of the organic. ‘Mistakes’, grit, grain, anomalies – all things that software and printing technicians have spent years attempting to eliminate from imaging and repro have resulted in super clean, super sharp and – yes – beautiful image quality. For much of my work this is great, but for other aspects – especially this exploration into traditional wheat weaving– I wanted something that felt more organic.

Photogravure uses an etching press with traditional oil based inks. One can print on all kinds of paper from tissue-thin Japanese Washi, to super heavy cold pressed etching papers. To be in command of the printing end of my work has been a long held ambition, and I’m finally getting there.

Prints will be available in the coming months from Solkka Studio. If you are interested please sign up to the Solkka mailing list to be informed when they are ready.