Printmaking
The metal plate for Tocci’s “Shitrock” etching from his “Animales” series.
Traditional Printmaking
Tocci has dedicated much of his recent work to the traditional printmaking techniques of etching and lithography by working with some of the world’s best print houses, using centuries-old printing techniques to create limited edition prints.
Etching
Etching is the process of using strong acid or mordant to cut into the unprotected parts of a metal surface to create a design in intaglio (incised) in the metal. As a method of printmaking, it is, along with engraving, the most important technique for old master prints, and remains in wide use today.
Etching plates at the print maker’s studio
Tocci revising etchings as they are prepared for the printing press.
Lithography
Lithography is a method of printing based on the immiscibility of oil and water. The image is drawn on a smooth stone with greasy inks or crayons, and the whole surface is then damped. The grained surface helps to hold the water while the ink repels it. The whole plate or stone is then rolled up with a printing ink which sticks to the greasy drawing, but not to the wet surface of the untouched zinc or stone.
Lithograph Press
This is the press at Atelier Clot where Tocci collaborated on a limited edition of lithograph prints.
Painting on stone
Tocci paints on stone with grease based tusche so that, once the stone is wet and rolled with printing ink, it will adhere to the image.
Collaboration
Lithograph, like any traditional printmaking, requires excellent collaboration between the artist and the printmaking team. Here, Tocci poses with “Scapegoats” and the team of Atelier Clot in Paris.