Cleaning Fish, Portlethen 1909

James McBey made this etching, "Cleaning Fish, Portlethen," using a copper plate and strong acid. The controlled corrosion of the metal is what creates the image we see. Look closely, and you will notice that McBey has left a lot of the plate untouched, allowing the eye to fill in details. This is particularly evident in the women’s faces and clothing. The artist's skillful work captures the repetitive and physical labor involved in the fish cleaning process. Notice the texture and weight of the acid-etched lines, and how they convey the women's stooped postures and the cramped, dark workspace. The print's starkness encourages us to consider the social context of the scene, and the contrast between the labor of the working class and the traditional realm of fine art. Ultimately, the artwork challenges us to value the artistry in everyday life and work.