UP TO SCRATCH

Judy Hutchins                                  Scratchboard Artist

What is Scratchboard Art?

Sometimes referred to as scraperboard (especially in Great Britain), but usually called scratchboard in North America and Australia, is a form of direct engraving where the artist scratches off dark ink to reveal a white layer beneath. Scratchboard refers to both a fine-art medium, and an illustrative technique using sharp knives and tools for engraving into a thin layer of white clay that is coated with dark, often black India ink.

Modern scratchboard originated in the 19th century in Britain and France. Unlike many drawing mediums, where the artist adds in the mid-tones and shadows, with scratchboard the artist is working by adding in the highlights. The artist can use a variety of tools to begin scratching away the black ink and reveal the white clay that is underneath. Values within the artwork are achieved by scratching more or less of the black ink off of the board.

Judy is a Heathcote based artist who works in a number of mediums including oil and cold wax, printmaking, drawing and oil painting. She has been working in scratchboard for over  ten years and finds this medium combines her love of drawing and tonal work.  Her main scratchboard subjects are animals with particular emphasis on horses.

judyhartist@gmail.com