TIME: Preservation, Continuation, and Evolution
The Creative Journey
This inaugural exhibition by Wendy Davey explores the profound concept of time within contemporary jewelry and metalwork. In an increasingly fast-paced digital world, this body of work acts as a deliberate reminder to slow down, be present, and appreciate handcrafted objects that carry personal connections and deep historical roots.
For Wendy, this journey traces back to Malaspina Printworks on Granville Island, the sole location in British Columbia equipped for this work safely, where she mastered intaglio techniques and adapted them to precious metals. Expanding on the exhibition's overarching theme of time, the creation process relies on asphaltum, an ancient substance with a rich history stretching back to the hanging gardens of Babylon and ancient Egypt, bridging centuries of traditional craftsmanship with the evolution of modern studio practice.
The following ten-step documentation details the intricate physical and technical journey behind these pieces. From preparing and grounding the metal plate to the careful execution of design, the controlled acid bath, and final finishing, each stage reflects a deliberate commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship while pushing contemporary metal arts forward.
Step 01
MATERIAL SOURCING & CUTTING
The journey begins with selecting raw copper and silver sheets, then carefully measuring, sawing, and shearing them into precise plate dimensions or individual component blanks for the exhibition pieces.
Step 02
SURFACE CONDITIONING & SANDING
Before any coating can adhere, the metal plates undergo rigorous surface preparation. This involves sanding away oxidation and scratches, followed by deep cleaning to remove oils and microscopic debris from handling.
Step 03
APPLYING THE RESIST / ASPHALTUM
An acid-resistant ground, specifically traditional asphaltum varnish, is meticulously applied across the clean metal surface to create an even, flawless protective film that will shield unexposed areas from the etchant.
Step 04
CURING & DRYING
The freshly coated plates must be cured to stabilize the resist layer. This is achieved through controlled drying periods, utilizing equipment like hot plates or studio ovens to ensure the asphaltum sets without cracking or bubbling.
Step 05
DESIGN TRANSFER & TRACING
Botanical illustrations and complex floral layouts are transferred onto the hardened dark ground. Transfer paper or carbon tracing methods are used to accurately map out the composition across the plate.
Step 06
SCRAPING & PAINTING DETAILS
Using fine engraving and scraping tools, the artist manually clears away the resist along the traced lines to expose the bare metal. Additional details are hand-painted or textured to introduce depth and character into the design.
Step 07
TAPING & EDGE PROTECTION
To prepare for the chemical bath, packing tape is applied to the reverse side of the metal and extended into folded handle tails for safe lowering. Edges are carefully sealed so the acid cannot compromise the back of the piece.
Step 08
ACID BATH SUBMERSION
Protected by full safety gear including certified respirators and nitrile gloves, the artist lowers the plates into targeted chemical baths—nitric acid for silver and ferric chloride for copper—monitoring the etch over extended intervals.
Step 09
NEUTRALIZATION & RINSING
Once the desired etch depth is reached, the pieces are immediately transferred into a neutralizing water bath to halt the chemical reaction. The tape is stripped away, and the plates are closely inspected under magnification.
Step 010
CLEANUP & FINAL FINISHING
The final stage involves dissolving the remaining asphaltum resist using paint thinner and specialized solvents. The completed pieces are thoroughly washed in soapy water, dried, and given a soft final polish to reveal the brilliant, textured metal.
Step 011
THE FINISHED PRODUCT
The journey from raw sheet metal and ancient asphaltum to these delicate, botanically inspired creations highlights a deep reverence for time-honored craftsmanship. By fusing traditional intaglio printing techniques with contemporary metal arts, these finished earrings, rings, and pendants stand as enduring tactile reminders to slow down and appreciate the intricate connections between nature, history, and hand-formed beauty.
HEARTFELT GRATITUDE
Creating this body of work has been an immersive journey, made possible through guidance and support from extraordinary mentors and community leaders:
Maya U Schueller Elmes, Instructor: Thank you for your invaluable wisdom, your generous investment of time both in and outside of class.
Val Lowen, Facilities Manager at Malaspina: Your backend leadership, logistical support, and dedication to our experience at Malaspina have been instrumental to the success of this exhibition. I am deeply grateful.
Kelly Allanson from Mountain Gems: Thank you for your unwavering support and guidance, and for listening to me go on and on and on.
Ingrid Valou and The Vancouver Metal Arts Association: Without your dedication and commitment, this artist residency would not exist.
With Grace, Wendy.
EXHIBITION INFORMATION & VIEWING DETAILS
Join us to experience these pieces in person. The exhibition is open for viewing at the gallery space with scheduled artist talks and walk-throughs.
Location: Vancouver Metal Arts Association Gallery Space
Dates & Hours: More information to come.
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