Ledaig 1897

David Young Cameron made this etching, ‘Ledaig,’ using metal plates and acid. The process gives the image its distinctive, textured quality. Cameron carefully layered lines to create depth and shadow, building up tone through the controlled erosion of the metal. Notice how the buildings and landscape emerge from a dense network of marks, giving the scene a tangible weight and presence. Etching requires patience and skill, combining technical knowledge with artistic vision. The artist used a sharp needle to draw into a wax ground, exposing the metal, before submerging the plate in acid. This labor-intensive process highlights the contrast between industrial production and handmade art. By embracing this method, Cameron elevates a humble scene into a study of light and shadow. The artwork reminds us that even in an age of mass production, the human touch still holds the power to transform and elevate our surroundings.