This image has followed a tortured road.  4x5 film negative > black and white photograph (Ilford Multigrade FB) > handcolored with dyes > scanned to digital file > digital b&w negative and digital color negatives > handcrafted silver gelatin emulsion > three-color gum printing.   ( Note: I am working out negative manipulation guidelines.  When I feel comfortable that these are not totally bogus, I will amend this page to include that information.  Currently, I am employing standard gum printing techniques of pigment v. sensitizer concentrations and exposure timing, along with selective pigment removal during development.  Which of the time-honored gum techniques will remain part of my personal work flow is yet to be determined.  dwr: 9/10/07)

As I have noted in pervious posts, the quality of the print doesn't quite come through the scanning process.  The tooth of the paper, covered with gelatin  and gum is beautifully smooth and reflective.  The scan looks much more matt and rough than the original.

10/3/07

One last go at 'Courage' for awhile.  I decided to play with as many manipulations as I could think of.  1) I made significant changes to the B&W print.  I lightened the sky to leave only a hint of the clouds and I selectively lightened each cactus pad.  2)  Added Q Gold to the highlights layer.  3) Changed blue pigments.  4) Changed red layer mix.  5) For a fifth layer,  I selectively painted on sensitized "Sap Green". 

All watercolors and gum arabic from Daniel Smith.  Potassium dichromate sensitizer.  UVB photo flood exposure. 

"I ♥" silver gelatin emulsion, "Defender Dwr" developer.  Selenium toned.  Fabriano Artistico X-White watercolor paper. Image: 3.5 x 5.25 inches.	First layer (highlights):   Naples Yellow and Quniacridone Gold	Second layer:  Ultramarine Blue

Third layer:  Quinacridone Red, Quinacridone Rose, and Rhodonite Genuine	Fourth layer:  Hansa Yellow Medium and Lemon Yellow	Fifth layer: Selectively applied 'Sap Green'