This image is one of my first photographic experiments with photographic layering-screen printing my own photographic decals back during my Masters degree in Multi Disciplinary Printmaking. I explored both using a single image and this more technical and time intensive method of colour separation. My thoughts are I much preferred the space for the experimental single firing of the image where I could play with process - over firing and the exposed metal - allowing the copper surface to be an intentional part of the design.

Co- creating and the shared experience with simple printing, stamping methods using the unbound book form. I enjoy how this method is so accessible to all and can be a really lovely way to begin a visual journal in a shared group working in a collaborative way to free up ideas and work together to watch things unfold

The ritual of cleaning the copper

Preparation of the copper before enamelling can feel quite therapeutic, grinding the edges with a pumice stone and washing to de grease the surface reminds me of the cleaning of specimens after an archaeological dig. I love the potential that copper allows when fired, the beautiful oxides that occur when fired to a high heat, the over firing and the charcoal coloured matt- black tarnish that is the fire-scale. Then the reveal of the bare copper, a salmon-like warm colour when dipped back in to the pickle bath afterwards. It is a transformative process that requires me to observe, reflect and respond in equal measure and for me a constant source of challenge and change.