Texes Art EC-12 Practice Exam

Which printmaking technique involves using an acid-resistant ground on a metal plate?

1. Woodcut

2. Etching

3. Silkscreen

4. Engraving

The correct answer is: Etching

The technique that involves using an acid-resistant ground on a metal plate is etching. In this printmaking process, an artist first covers the metal plate, typically made of zinc or copper, with a waxy or resin-like material that acts as a resist. The artist then uses a tool to draw or scratch into the ground, exposing the metal beneath. After the image is created, the plate is submerged in a bath of acid. The acid bites into the exposed areas of the plate, creating grooves. Once the desired depth is reached, the plate is cleaned, the ground is removed, and ink is applied, allowing for the creation of prints. This method allows for fine detail and a range of tonal qualities that can be achieved through varying the depth of the grooves. In contrast, woodcut involves carving into a wooden block, silkscreen uses mesh to transfer ink onto various surfaces, and engraving requires cutting directly into the surface of a hard material, often yielding different textural effects. Each of these techniques has unique properties and processes, making etching distinct in its use of acid and grounds to achieve various artistic outcomes.