Texes Art EC-12 Practice Exam

What technique characterizes aquatint?

1. Using oil paints on canvas

2. Sprinkling resin on a metal plate

3. Carving wood blocks for printing

4. Creating mosaic designs

The correct answer is: Sprinkling resin on a metal plate

The technique that characterizes aquatint involves sprinkling resin on a metal plate, which is then heated to adhere the resin particles to the surface. This process creates a textured area that can hold ink and allows for the production of tonal effects in printmaking. Once the plate is prepped, areas not covered by resin are etched with acid, resulting in a rich range of shades when printed. This method differs significantly from other printing and painting techniques, such as using oil paints on canvas or carving wood blocks, which utilize different materials and processes. The unique ability of aquatint to provide subtle gradations of tone—similar to watercolor washes—sets it apart in the realm of printmaking.