The Lochan 1914

David Young Cameron created ‘The Lochan’ using etching, a printmaking technique steeped in history. An etcher like Cameron would begin by coating a metal plate with a waxy, acid-resistant ground. The image is then scratched into this ground, exposing the metal. When the plate is submerged in acid, the exposed lines are bitten, creating grooves. The magic happens in the printing process. Ink is forced into these grooves, the plate surface is wiped clean, and then pressed onto paper. The pressure transfers the ink, revealing the image. Look closely, and you’ll notice the fineness of the lines, achieved through skillful manipulation of the etching needle and the acid bath. This wasn't just a mechanical process; it was a craft, demanding a deep understanding of materials and techniques. By appreciating the labor involved, we move beyond the image itself, and consider the broader context of artistic production.