To produce his prints, Frank employs the techniques of etching and watercolor. After the drawing for the print is etched onto the copper plate, it is immersed in an acid bath which bites away at the etched lines. Then etching ink is applied to the surface of the plate, forcing the ink into the etched lines. The inked and polished plate is placed on the bed of the etching press and a damp sheet of 100% rag paper is placed on top of it. The pressure of the rollers embosses the lines of ink into the paper. The process is repeated for each etching. After the edition is printed, Frank then handcolors each print.

An important aspect of Frank’s work involves the interaction of the watercolor and the moistened paper. He utilizes the absorbent properties of the paper to create a relaxing and calming effect while the hard etched line give a contrasting realism to each print.

For over twenty years, Frank Kaczmarek etchings have been featured in galleries throughout the United States, Europe and Japan. Mr. Kaczmarek resides with his family in Cambridge MA and works at night because it is quiet and peaceful and contributes to his concentration and creativity.