Do you remember “The Great Wave Off Kanagawa” or “Red Fuji”? They are classic images (immediately recognizable), but did you know they also are fine examples of mokuhanga?
Do you remember “The Great Wave Off Kanagawa” or “Red Fuji”? They are classic images (immediately recognizable), but did you know they also are fine examples of mokuhanga?
This Japanese style of woodblock printing differs from western woodblock in that it is water-based printing with sumi ink, watercolor and nori (rice paste), so no toxic solvents are used.
You can learn how to make your own classic image with sensei Glenn Yamanoha during Volcano Art Center’s “Mokuhanga: Traditional Japanese Woodblock Printmaking” workshop Feb. 2 through March 9 at the center’s Niaulani Campus.
Traditional Japanese woodblock printmaking is a relief printing technique that uses Japanese tools and natural materials. Yamanoha will introduce the basic process in five hands-on sessions. Attendees will learn the fundamental techniques of mokuhanga such as cutting with chisels, preparing blocks and paper, registration and printing with a baren (printing pad).
By using nontoxic “green” materials, mokuhanga readily combines traditional processes with new printing technologies.
Yamanoha studied woodblock printing in Kyoto, Japan, on a Monbusho (Japanese government) scholarship from 1988-90. He lives in Volcano Village and runs Volcano Gravel.
The course fee is $80/$72 for VAC members plus a $30 supply fee. No experience is necessary.
The nonprofit Volcano Art Center was created in 1974 to promote, develop and perpetuate the artistic and cultural heritage of Hawaii’s people and environment through activities in the visual, literary and performing arts.
To register for the workshop or for more information, call 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.