japanese woodblock

Tutor: Debra Bowden                     

 Saturday and Sunday (eight places)

20 and 21 November 10am - 4pm both days

An introduction to one of the most versatile relief processes. Debra trained as a printmaker and has, in recent years, focused on the art of Japanese woodblock printmaking. In November 2006 she won a scholarship to Awaji in Japan, to work under the tutelage of the masters of this art form, the only Irish Artist to have been awarded this honour.

Debra Bowden: Montbretia 2008 ((2ft x 2ft) Japanese woodblock print (unique)

 

the technique

 

Japanese woodblock printmaking is an ancient technique that dates back to the 8th century. It is completely hand produced and water based, requires no printing press and the minimum of specialised equipment, thus providing an environmentally friendly and easily transportable process.

 Traditionally text or an image would first be drawn onto washi (Japanese paper), and then glued onto a plank of wood, usually cherry. Wood is then cut away, based on the outlines given by the drawing. A small wooden hard object called a baren would be used to press or burnish the paper against the inked woodblock, thus applying the ink onto the paper.