Haptic Etchings

Over the last few weeks I have been finally putting together a large-ish project which is destined for a postgraduate exchange exhibition with the Bergen Art College (Kunsthogskolen i Bergen), Norway. The exhbibition has been co-ordinated by ACiD (Adavnced Centre in Drawing) at UWE. The theme for the exhibition has been 'Bi-Sensual'.

To fulfil the brief I have explored a number of haptic experiences when out on my walks, paying particular attention to one path. I was keen to draw an image of the common sensations that are linked to the fabric of that walk, not to the weather conditions. I recorded these sensations in my sketchbook and then translated them into etchings. A subtitle to these prints could be 'Things that happen to me on a walk'. The etchings have enabled me to further explore experimental mark making.

These etchings will be shown alongside a large scale drawing of the place. (I'll explain the drawing on the next post)

'leaf falls against face'

'hair catches in a branch'

'twig brushes against sleeve'



'foot turns over on a stone'



'step slips in mud'



I am hoping that the tactile appearance of an etching will help to underline the haptic nature of the prints.

My Bi-Sensual piece will therefore be an image of the place and the tactile sensations of being in the place.