Etched and aquatinted copper plate
- Artist: Amy-Jane Blackhall
- Artist: Tristan Reid
- Date: 2022
- Medium: etched and aquatinted copper plate
- Dimensions: 3 7/8 in. x 5 7/8 in. (100 mm x 150 mm) overall
- Museum: The National Portrait Gallery
- Collection record: The National Portrait Gallery website
Listen to the free audio guide
About this artwork
In front of you is “Etched and aquatinted copper plate” from 2022 by Tristan Reid and Amy‑Jane Blackhall. The small image—about 4 × 6 cm—shows a close view of the artist’s face. Fine etched lines trace the eyes and mouth, made after Tristan scratched them into an acid‑resistant coating. Amy‑Jane added tone by applying resin powder before each acid dip, giving depth without heavy ink. In the accompanying film you see both artists at work: scratch, coat, dip—revealing the step‑by‑step process.
See it in person
Etched and aquatinted copper plate is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
