Work in Progress - June & July 2004

Drypoint Figure Drawings

In recent months I have been exploring figure drawing in the drypoint intaglio (engraving) technique. With a new printing press in my bedroom, I can sketch on a copper plate and proof the sketch in minutes. This has led to a series of "breezy" and quick images that emphasize the human figure. Some are my more common ballet images. but a few are nudes, such as the one to the right. This study of an older retired dancer is partially inspired by a few lines from the old irish folksong, Tam Lin: As will be seen in the future on these pages, I am currently working on a series of studies that explore the similarities between the human figure, and that of trees.

In June and July, 2004 I began driving around the southwestern United States with a small printing press in the back of my SUV and a supply of copper. Although I kept the trips short, and still visited local ballet classes regularly for drawing practice, I also began to develop some new images of landscapes. These will be featured later on another website that I am developing that will emphasize these non-ballet subjects. Stay tuned!

"Had I known Tam Lin, she said, of this knight that I did see, I would have looked him in the eyes, and turned him to a tree"

TC 3 (2003)
Drypoint on Copper

YM 1 (2003)
Drypoint on Copper

I am also continuing a series of recent portraits of dancer friends of mine, portrait studies that are intended to reveal aspects of their character. These are smaller, more intimate images, but they have also been well received by viewers who find in them, as do I, universal qualities.

Cat Dancers (2004)

A copper intaglio drypoint made in May, 2004. This is an example of loose drypoint images that attempt to represent the feelings and emotions of the backstage environment. Two dancers ("Puss in Boots" and the "White Cat" from Sleeping Beauty) pause backstage after their variation.

Intensity Backstage (2004)

This 18 by 24 inch pen and ink drawing marks a return to the larger-format sketches that depict the mood and lighting of the ballet environment.

Tess in Lilac Color Proof (2004)

The work above is a gravure (a form of intaglio print), made by combining several plates together. It represents an exploration in the use of color and tonality that has been interesting me lately. My thanks to Regina Held and New Grounds Press for the use of their facilities and excellent advice -- B. H. Giza

Link to the previous May 2004 Work in Progress Page

Link to the New Work Home Page Page

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