Following on from my previous article I now wish to dwell upon the art of printmaking and its associated Health, Safety and Environmental aspects. Printmaking a practice that allows for the creation of multiple original artworks from a single matrix, has long been defined by its use of specific, and often hazardous, materials. From the biting acids of intaglio to the caustic solvents used in lithography, printmaking studios have historically been environments where artists navigated significant risks. While traditional printmaking has yielded some of the most enduring works of art, the modern era has seen a crucial shift toward safer, more sustainable alternatives. I wish to explore the essential materials of traditional printmaking, detail the hazards they present to artists and the environment, and examine how technological advancements have led to the development of safer, and equally effective, contemporary practices.
Traditional printmaking techniques can be broadly divided into two categories: relief and intaglio. Relief printing, such as woodcut or linocut, involves carving away parts of a block to leave a raised surface that holds ink. Intaglio printing, which includes etching and engraving, involves incising a design into a metal plate. In both traditions, the materials present notable dangers. Intaglio printing, in particular, has long relied on corrosive acids and hazardous solvents. Etching, for example, uses nitric acid or ferric chloride to “bite” into the metal plate. These etching solutions produce toxic fumes that can cause severe respiratory damage and skin burns. The grounds used to protect the plate from the acid, often made of a combination of waxes and asphaltum, are removed with turpentine or mineral spirits, both of which are volatile organic solvents that pose inhalation and skin absorption risks similar to those found in traditional oil painting. Relief printing, while less reliant on acids, may use inks that often contain pigments derived from heavy metals and require harsh solvents for cleanup.
The health hazards posed by these materials are both acute and chronic. The inhalation of solvent vapours can lead to neurological damage, headaches, and dizziness. Direct skin contact with acids and solvents can cause severe burns and dermatitis. Furthermore, many traditional pigments, such as chrome yellow and lead white, are highly toxic and can lead to organ damage or cancer upon prolonged exposure, particularly if dry pigment dust is inhaled. From an environmental perspective, the improper disposal of these chemicals is a major concern. The waste from etching baths and the contaminated solvents used for cleanup can leach into the ground or enter water systems, causing widespread pollution and harming aquatic life.
Recent technological developments in printmaking have focused on creating a safer, more sustainable studio environment. The most significant innovation is the move toward “non-toxic” or “safer” printmaking. In intaglio, this has meant replacing nitric acid with less corrosive and less toxic alternatives like salt water etching with an electric current (electro-etching). The use of safer grounds that can be removed with vegetable oil-based solvents has also become more common. For relief printing, water-based inks have largely replaced oil-based ones, eliminating the need for harsh mineral spirit or turpentine-based cleaners. Similarly, the introduction of non-toxic, synthetic pigments has allowed artists to achieve the same vibrant colours as traditional ones without the associated health risks. These advancements are driven by a deeper understanding of material science and a global movement toward environmental responsibility.
These modern materials are not only safer but often offer advantages that traditional materials do not. Water-based inks dry faster and are easier to clean up, which allows artists to work more efficiently and spontaneously. Newer, non-toxic grounds can be applied with greater control and consistency than traditional wax-based grounds. While some purists argue that the unique qualities of traditional materials are irreplaceable, the evidence suggests that modern alternatives can produce equally beautiful and lasting prints. The goal of art is creative expression, not exposure to dangerous chemicals. The ability to achieve stunning results without compromising one’s health or the environment is a powerful testament to the value of innovation. Modern printmaking materials prove that tradition can be honoured and built upon, allowing artists to create freely and safely for generations to come.
Here at Alchemy Art we are very keen to explore and develop safe art materials and to mitigate the associated risks mentioned in this article. To this end we have formulated a plate cleaning solvent that has a low odour and is less likely to produce inhalation and skin absorption issues. So far tests have shown that it can remove Scimitar Satin Hard Ground and also Scimitar Stop Out Varnish without too much difficulty. Hopefully, this product will be added to the Scimitar range soon.
Regarding toxic, heavy metal-based pigments it is our intention to formulate optional ink colours using safer alternatives.
Lastly, we are investigating suitable procedures to handle spent etching solutions rendering them inert and therefore safe for disposal. We will share our thoughts on this matter when we have completed our research.