The old craft of etching is a delight to work with. The sensitivity and tonality one can reach is unparalleled. Deelstra learned this technique during his stay in Arthouse Pani, an art residency near Mexico City. A part of his blog is posted down here to show you some of the context. The whole blog is found here.

“The first day that I go to work in the graphics workshop. I'm sitting there with Walker Payne, one of my three co-residents, when the man of the house, Knut, walks in, happy to see us. He has this very nice energy to have around you: "Shall I teach you how to etch guys?" In the afternoon he teaches us how to set up an etching with all the chemicals you need. He explains everything patiently and seems to enjoy it. In the first week, I already made three etchings and a wooden sculpture, which would never have been possible without the help of a professional. When the clock strikes twelve, he pours us both a beer with tomato juice (common in Mexico). While dancing and smoking a cigar he juggles with the different techniques as if it were effortless. How he works is exactly what I want around me during my creative process. Not complicated, no whining, but with gayness in everything he does. Having fun in the act of making art.

Lunch is usually ready around three o'clock (technically not included so don’t assume it’s there all the time). We eat the lovely dishes that Carla has prepared: tostadas, sopes, aztec lasagna, and more. Additionally, Mexico is known for its delicious yet unhealthy street food. This is abundantly available for dinner, but breakfast and lunch are fresh and healthy. In the evening we often go into the bustling village to score tacos, tortas or other treats. There are also nice bars just a stone's throw away. It is absolutely safe and peaceful here. Latin America can sometimes feel tense when you walk down the street with expensive items or in the dark, but here in the small town of Tequis I’ve never felt more safe. If you're looking for whimsicality, it can be found here too. The side streets of the village are built crisscrossing one another. Cacti grow through abandoned shacks. With a bit of luck, you will see a rattlesnake or a scorpion. In addition, the storms also give beautiful skies and light shows. For inspiration, this is a great place. If you're out of inspiration here, it's your fault. Period.”