Inspiration
Richard Foster’s creative process is deeply rooted in his passion for traditional printmaking techniques and his keen observation of the world around him. Working almost exclusively in black and white, Richard relies on the play of light to bring drama to his work.
Exploring Techniques
Richard Foster draws inspiration for his artwork from a variety of sources, most notably from the printmaking process itself. His primary medium is etching, a technique where a thin resistant coating is rolled onto a metal printing plate. Richard then draws into the plate breaking the surface and exposing the metal. Acid is used to eat into the surface of the plate, creating grooves that hold ink.
Richard also utilises drypoint etching, a method that involves drawing directly onto the plate with a sharp needle. These techniques produce distinct effects: the acid etching creates clean, sharp lines, while drypoint etching results in softer, more atmospheric images with smudgy lines and dark, moody tones.
The final print is also influenced by how ink is applied onto the plate and how it is wiped off and results in prints that are all subtly different and unique.
Richard also enhances his work by embossing the paper with textured but un-inked plates, adding another layer of depth to the finished piece.
“Living and working on the edge of the Lakes, and overlooking Morecambe Bay informs my work. Perhaps not the grand picturesque views we associate with the Lake District, but the less formal and everyday corners of the countryside that we encounter when we walk the dog, for example. I also love to focus on the details of the landscape – from a bee collecting nectar to a bird in a bush.”
“During a recent visit to Wiltshire I was awed by the magnificent Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments in the county. This led to the development of new prints, including work inspired by the standing stones to be found in the north of England and Scotland.”
“As a keen gardener I am fascinated by the energy of the seasons; the slow explosion of growth as seeds germinate and develop to full maturity. “
See Richard’s latest work on the Updates page.
How to buy
Richard's etchings are available through galleries, exhibitions and direct from the artist. Prices range from £65 to £400. Please email richard@rfetchings.co.uk if you are interested in any of his prints or you are a gallery interested in representing Richard.