Sterling
Male Bald Eagle
Color Mixed Media Print / Oil Paint over India Ink Etching print by CC Wari
This dramatic and powerful male Bald Eagle is a testimonial to the strength and fortitude of this species which was brought to the brink of extinction only 60 years ago. This composition perfectly captures the Bald Eagles status as a symbol of strength, freedom and power.
CC photographed this particular mated pair while on a trip to Alaska and then etched these separate dramatic images of the female and male in the early 2000’s. The two originals were sold to a healing center in Australia shortly after completion and greet patrons in the entrance to the facility. Prior to shipping the Eagles, prints were made of them and the artist later embellished the prints with oil paints and pigments, bringing new life and a different feel to the original pieces.
CC’s work evokes an almost sculptural presence that feels both majestic and intensely alive. Her detail shines through in this breathtaking work of our national symbol.
The vivid golds and translucent whites cause the subject matter to almost glow as its head strikes an intense pose upon the canvas. The artist uses fine etching and crosshatching to define sweeping velvety feather patterns. The rich texture and intricacy of the etching is heightened by the addition of the oil paints creating an excellent tonal range and seductive color palate that brings this piece to life.
This artwork captures the quintessential symbolism of the bald eagles - strength, freedom, and resilience. A beautifully rendered eagle portrait that blends scientific accuracy with artistic drama featuring a highly detailed execution. Paired with the male eagle, the two are a striking and majestic addition to any art collection, home or business.
Artist remarks on the etching / oil paint embellishing process:
The India ink etchings can be dramatically altered with the addition of color and a new form of texture to the pieces. I find it challenging and wonderful to see a new creation of an original piece. The initial process begins with an original India ink etching.
“India ink etchings involve a rather laborious and often difficult medium to work with, particularly when attempting to create a larger work of art. The medium is severely unforgiving to mistakes. It can be fabulously frustrating at times and fabulously rewarding if patience and a steady hand and eye prevails.” CC Wari
India ink etchings start with a thin pure white layer of kaolin clay layered onto a heavy paper or Masonite board that is then covered with black India ink. The ink is etched away revealing the clay layer beneath it and thus revealing the subject matter. The India ink is removed using fine knives or even hypodermic needles to etch the ink away revealing the image or subject matter. Larger etchings can take weeks or even months to create. Once this process is completed the piece is scanned and prints are made either on canvas or on heavy 100% cotton rag.
The print is then embellished with oil or acrylic paints and a new creation emerges bearing a new colorful expression of the art piece. Prints are then made of the new piece to be offered to the public by the artist.
CC Wari demonstrates a masterful control of this process in her etchings which is why her works are so highly sought after. Her original artworks demonstrate precise line work, delicate cross-hatching, and stippling to build form, depth, and texture and obtain detail that is unmatched in the world of India ink etchings. This creates an almost photographic level of attention to detail while capturing the soul and spirit of her subject matter. CC Wari’s brilliant use of the dramatic monochrome technique conveys each of her subjects with a unique majesty and grandeur all their own.
Printing medium: This Mixed Media India Ink etching is printed as a fine art Giclee print on the finest Museum grade archival paper using an 11 color ink system that ensures true to life color and hues as well as visibility down to the most minute details. It is as close to the original as is physically possible.
Available in 28 x 22" signed and numbered limited run. Dimensions are inclusive of a 2" border.
Available in 11 x 14" open edition. Dimensions inclusive of a 1/2" border.
Pairs with Sitka, Female Bald Eagle and can be purchased in “Pairs” multi-item pricing.