Octave Open Call For Two Individual Grants in 2026. For Postgraduates In Fine Arts And Printmaking, under thirty.

About the Open Call

The Electro-etching workshop-residency introduces the artist to an alternative technique of intaglio etching, using a completely non-toxic electrical process. It offers one of the healthiest and most fascinating methods for etching copper, zinc, and iron plates. Among its many other advantages, the electro-etching process does not generate toxic gases, nor does it generate metalic residue that acumulates in the grooves and stops the etching. The mordant does not become exhausted by successive bites and it does not undercut the metal under the varnish. It completely eliminates the harmful spray from rosin or asphalt for aquatints. The electro-etching residency is held at the workshop and residence of the artist Alfonso Crujera. The resident artist will be introduced to the fascinating of electro-etching copper or zinc plates. He will have access to the master’s direct and personal assistance and will have the opportunity to develop their current knowledge of non-toxic etching using electricity, applying these techniques to their own work. The artist will also learn how to assemble an electro-etching unit themselves, so they will be able to continue electro-etching in their own studio back home. The program includes Theoretical content (Rudiments of electrolysis, History of electro-etching, Principles of electro-etching, The electro-etching unit, How set up an electro-etching unit from the beginning - You do not need any previous knowledge of electricity, Preparing the electrolyte, Voltage and amperage) and Practical content (Preparation of the plate, including filing and degreasing, Hard ground, etching lines, Electrotint with open bite, Graphite ink and Big resists for lines and electrotint, Soft ground, Semi-dry electro-etching, Alternative resists (lithographic pencil, oxidation, splashing, etc.), Safety rules). The use of the studio and professional attention involves a reasonable timetable of four hours a day, five days a week for guidance and advice, with the workshop at complete disposal 24 hours a day. All equipment required for etching (electrolytic unit, tools, acrylic and oil based resists, proof inks, solvents) will be provided. Language for instruction is Spanish and English. Accommodation includes a separate apartment with single room, private bathroom and shower, a kitchen for cooking, and free access to Internet with a complete art library.

What is Offered

Two individual grants for two artists. The grant consists of free accommodation for two weeks and the trip to and from the airport to the residence at the beginning and end of the stay, representing a saving for the artist of €625. It offers a two-week less-toxic printmaking workshop focusing on electro-etching techniques, professional guidance, 24-hour studio access with all necessary equipment, and the opportunity to learn how to assemble an electro-etching unit.

Requirements

Artists under thirty, Fine Arts graduates between 2021 and 2025 with experience in intaglio printmaking. Health Insurance is obligatory.

How to Apply

To apply for the grant artists should send an e-mail to electro@crujera.com including the Registration Form filled, copy of his/her graduation certificate, a CV and a brief biography, five pictures of prints and a statement of why he/she wants to attend the Electro-etching workshop (200 words maximum). Download the Grant Registration Form.