Via San Vitale, Bologna 1904

This is 'Via San Vitale, Bologna' by Donald Shaw MacLaughlan, an etching, made probably in the early 20th century. Just imagine him, alone, with his plate, his acid, and his tools… The way the light filters down this Bolognese street feels so intimate. See how the artist used hatching and cross-hatching, tiny little lines that he must have etched meticulously, to build up shadows and textures. It’s amazing how such a limited palette can create such depth. I wonder what MacLaughlan was thinking as he worked on this plate? Perhaps he was trying to capture the unique atmosphere of Bologna, its ancient buildings, and the quiet life of its streets. Or maybe it was simply the play of light and shadow that caught his eye. Etchings like this remind me that artists are always in conversation, borrowing and riffing off each other's ideas. This piece feels like a nod to earlier printmakers, while also bringing MacLaughlan's own unique perspective to the table. It’s a beautiful example of how art can capture a moment in time and invite us to see the world in a new way.