Exhibited at the Scar Gallery Ravenstonedale: August 29th – September 28th 2025

Richard trained as an art historian working in museums and country houses, as well as continuing to pursue his printmaking. British printmakers of the early 20th century, including Laura Knight, Ralph Middleton Todd and Edgar Holloway informed Richard’s practice and continue to do so today.

Now Richard works from a home studio and at the Iron Press, Lancaster and Linden Print Studio, Carlisle.

AWARDS & PRIZES

Work on Paper Award, Lakes Artists Society Exhibition, Kent Valley Work on Paper Award, Lake Artists Society Exhibition, Fenton Arts Trust Prize, Originals Open Exhibition, Mall Gallery, London

Elected a Member of the Lake Artists Society in 2024

PRINTMAKING TECHNIQUE

Richard Foster draws inspiration for his artwork from a variety of sources, most notably from the printmaking process itself. His primary medium is etching, a technique where a thin resistant coating is rolled onto a metal printing plate. Richard then draws into the plate breaking the surface and exposing the metal. Acid is used to eat into the surface of the plate, creating grooves that hold ink.

Richard also utilises drypoint etching, a method that involves drawing directly onto the plate with a sharp needle. These techniques produce distinct effects: the acid etching creates clean, sharp lines, while drypoint etching results in softer, more atmospheric images with smudgy lines and dark, moody tones.

The final print is also influenced by how ink is applied onto the plate and how it is wiped off and results in prints that are all subtly different and unique. 

Richard also enhances his work by embossing the paper with textured but un-inked plates, adding another layer of depth to the finished piece.