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
The identification of illustration processes and techniques, including (but not only) woodcut, etching, engraving, stipple, aquatint, mezzotint, lithography, wood engraving, steel engraving, process line and halftone relief, collotype, photogravure, and color 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.
In their personal statement, prospective applicants should describe the extent of their formal and/or informal background in the field.
Course History
Faculty
Terry Belanger
In September 2009, Terry Belanger retired as founding Director of Rare Book School and 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)