Description

Each print is an original, limited edition drypoint, printed by hand onto 100% cotton paper, from a copper plate with a border of paper around each image - signed and numbered by Richard Spare.

Hand coloured drypoint
Image: 14 x 12.5cm
Paper: 28 x 24cm
Edition 100

Richard studied painting at Maidstone College of Art (1971-74). He has continued to produce his own work ever since and has become intensely involved in printmaking. A Master printer, Richard has editioned work for many contemporary artists, including David Hockney, Robert Ryman, Francesco Clemente, Donald Sultan and Keith Haring. In 1977 he worked with David Hockney as his assistant, setting up an etching studio for him.

Today, Richard concentrates solely on his own work, which derives from nature and travel. The garden he has designed at his studio in Charlton is a rich source of inspiration. Filled with hollyhocks, foxgloves, poppies and wisteria, it is a small haven for wildlife and has been a starting point for many of his prints.

Each single print takes considerable time to produce. Aside from the time taken drawing the image - the plate must be re-inked and hand-wiped for each print made. The plates are printed on Richard's antique etching presses - the technique having changed very little since Rembrandt's day. The press is turned by hand then the damp paper is peeled off the plate to reveal an image which is thus unique - no mass production here! The print is then dried for eight hours under weights and finally hand-coloured, giving another dimension of uniqueness - an application of watercolour painting which works with the drypoint line.

Richard has been a frequent exhibitor at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and an invited exhibitor at the Discerning Eye exhibitions at the Mall Galleries.
Richard's work has many collectors worldwide.

www.richardspare-kayspare.com