More an experiment with ferric-chloride etching technique than an actual artwork, Ripple Tank was a process of trial and error which resulted in the manufacture of a recirculating ripple etching tank and several intaglio prints.
Test run 1 on brass plate. Acid was found to be flowing quite slowly and fins were introduced in subsequent test runs to better channel the acid flow.
Test run 2 on same brass plate, this time with the introduction of wave paddle. Sadly the visible texture did not translate when printed.
Test run 3 on same brass plate, this time with introduction obstructions (course aquatint, sand and steel ball bearings) as well as wave paddle.
Resultant print of test run 3. Again, very little of the plate texture was transferred in the print as the plate was worn too smooth by the flowing acid.
Beta version of tank during live testing. Note channeling fins to fore on left and fish-tank aerators being used on right to increase acid potency.
Process video
Pressing damp paper against found shipwreck metal between blankets so as to transfer the texture of the corroded metal. This texture was then transferred onto an etching plate treated with softground. Results were successful.
Single plate viscosity print using plate with wreckmetal-texture lift and etched in ripple tank.
Multiple plate viscosity print using plates etched in ripple tank.
Selection of four prints resulting from the various experiments made during the etching ripple tank design and manufacture process.
Final version of tank on display for mid-year exam. Water was used instead of etching acid to demonstrate the tank in operation.