Photoengraving on polymer film :
This process uses practices and technical know-how as far apart as digital technology, photography and traditional engraving. It combines the immediacy of digital, the patience of film photography and engraving.
It requires several steps:
- digital transfer of an image onto a transparency
- positioning of this transparent on a plate on which a photosensitive film has been laminated
- insolation, development, drying and post-exposure
As with a traditional engraving, the plate is then inked and then pulled manually on a hand press,
which gives it the status of print.
This is a collector's item whose plate (matrix) only allows a limited edition. The quality of the inks and papers used guarantee the permanence of the works identical to that of the engravings of past centuries.
A photoengraving always conceals a kind of mystery to me. The softness and sensuality of the paper used creates a special feeling (very different feeling than glossy paper).
I chose this process because it allows me to be autonomous in my practice. It leaves an important place for surprise and experimentation. Throughout its implementation, there is always a part of chance, accepted and chosen, and I always keep a great curiosity about the result.
