Bust of Stephen Granger 1906

Augustus John created this portrait of Stephen Granger using etching, a printmaking technique that offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistic process. The image begins with a metal plate, usually copper or zinc. The artist covers the plate with a waxy, acid-resistant ground, then draws the image into the ground with a sharp needle-like tool, exposing the metal beneath. When the plate is immersed in acid, the exposed lines are etched, or bitten, into the metal. By carefully controlling the depth and thickness of these lines, John has created subtle tonal variations in the print. The texture of the paper also contributes to the overall effect, interacting with the ink to create a unique surface quality. The image is both precise and immediate, capturing a sense of intimacy. As such, it reminds us that artistic creation is not just about the final image, but the dialogue between the artist, the materials, and the techniques employed.