VACMA: John Cumming

My grant application was intended to support a new body of work and research into printmaking techniques.  Having recently purchased an etching press from Hawthorn, and installed it in my Shetland studio, I was keen to familiarise myself with such techniques as would support my graphic work.  In particular I wanted to explore the possibilities inherent in carborundum printing.

The grant allowed me to establish a solid base of materials and tools with which I could experiment and take risks, confident in the knowledge that there would inevitably be failures and losses.  In spite of setbacks I have developed work in carborundum, collagraph, relief printing , blind printing, drypoint and monoprinting.

This is a process that continues today.  I am gradually learning which methods best suit my broader ouvre, which papers and inks will yield results and how to adjust my workshop practices to minimise errors and losses.   Since beginning this project, printmaking has become much more central to my body of work and I now dedicate several months of my working year to preparing plates and printing.

I have shown work in two printmaking exhibitions in Orkney and at the Royal Academy in London.  In terms of my personal development the grant has become a significant factor.  I am deeply grateful for the support and belief that has allowed this progression.