Owl 1949

Sue Fuller created this etching, ‘Owl,’ in 1949. An etching is made by covering a metal plate with a waxy, acid-resistant layer. The artist scratches an image into this coating, exposing the metal underneath. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines. The plate is inked and pressed onto paper, transferring the design. Note the rich textures Fuller achieves. She uses a variety of marks to describe the owl's feathers and the surrounding foliage. Look closely, and you can see how the etched lines create a sense of depth and shadow. The etching process allowed Fuller to create multiple, identical images. Printmaking is a craft deeply intertwined with industrial production, allowing art to reach a wider audience than unique artworks. By embracing this medium, Fuller challenged traditional notions of artistic value, emphasizing the importance of both the creative process and the accessibility of art.