I-20. Book Illustration Processes to 1900
Terry Belanger
“If you want to learn the ‘how to’ of illustrations, this is the course for you.” — 2017 student
Course Length: 30 hours
Course Week: 20–25 July 2025
Format: in person, University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA
Fee: $1,495
The identification of primarily European illustration processes and techniques, including (but not only) woodcut and wood-engraving, etching, line engraving, stipple, aquatint, mezzotint, lithography, steel engraving, collotype, gravure and aquatint photogravure, and process line and halftone black-and-white and three-color relief printing.
Almost the sole medium of instruction in this lecture course will be actual examples of original prints drawn from the extensive RBS collections. Most of these examples have been divided into individual packets all from the same (or a very similar) source, with one example for each student. Students will study the packets under close supervision, using 8X loupes and 30X microscopes (both provided), as necessary.
The course will include laboratory sessions in which students will make and proof a relief cut, an etching, and a drypoint. No artistic talent is assumed or expected.
The course, which is aimed at students who have had little previous instruction or experience in identifying illustration processes, is not best suited for those who are interested primarily in a single illustration process or chronological period, or who have significant experience in making intaglio and relief prints. Students are required to upload a copy of their most recent CV along with their personal statement.
Course History
Faculty
Terry Belanger
In September 2009, Terry Belanger retired as Founding Director of Rare Book School and as University Professor and Honorary Curator of Special Collections at the University of Virginia. He is a 2005 MacArthur Fellow.
Courses Formerly Offered
- C-20. Book Collecting (1995–2002, with William P. Barlow, Jr. under slightly varying titles)
- Developing Resources for Teaching the History of the Book (1988)
- G-10. Introduction to Descriptive Bibliography (1986–2005, variously with Donald Farren, David Ferris, and Richard Noble)