Broomielaw 1892

David Young Cameron created this print, titled 'Broomielaw', using etching, a process rooted in craft traditions. Cameron would have coated a metal plate with a waxy, acid-resistant ground, then scratched an image into the ground with a needle, exposing the metal. Immersing the plate in acid would bite into the exposed lines, creating grooves. The plate is then inked, and the surface wiped clean, leaving ink only in the etched lines. Finally, the plate is pressed onto paper, transferring the image. The material qualities of the metal plate and the artist's technique are crucial. The fineness of the etched lines captures the industrial landscape of the Broomielaw, a Glasgow harbour. We see the detail of ships, bridges, and dockworkers, all rendered with a stark, linear precision. Consider the labour involved, both in the scene depicted and in the making of the print itself. The etching process, demanding precision and skill, mirrors the work of the men on the docks. By understanding the materials, making, and context, we can fully appreciate the artistry and social commentary embedded in this image, pushing beyond traditional art boundaries.