The Unfinished Print : A Mokuhanga Podcast
The Unfinished Print is a podcast dedicated to exploring the art of Japanese woodblock printing, or mokuhanga. It offers an in-depth look at the printmakers, carvers, gallerists, and collectors involved in this unique art form. Through interviews, Andre Zadorozny, a mokuhanga printmaker himself, delves into what mokuhanga means to so many people.
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Roslyn Kean - Printmaker : The Spectrum Of Colours That Exist
12/31/2025
Roslyn Kean - Printmaker : The Spectrum Of Colours That Exist
One of the hallmarks of mokuhanga is building a strong foundation grounded in tradition. By studying deeply and making work informed by those who came before us, today’s mokuhanga printmakers help carry this beautiful tradition forward. On this episode of The Unfinished Print, a mokuhanga podcast, I speak with Roslyn Kean, a mokuhanga printmaker who is continuing the tradition of mokuhanga while developing her own unique perspective. Roslyn’s work is a wonderful example of how mokuhanga can be both rooted in tradition and open to exploration. Roslyn and I talk about her studies with Tōshi Yoshida and her time in Japan. We discuss her perspective on mokuhanga as a medium, her baren making, and how Australia has become an important place for printmakers, including the positive impact of diversity on Australian printmaking. Roslyn also shares insights into her process, from dampening paper and papermaking to the skill and care involved in handmade work, as well as how to source tools and equipment for making mokuhanga. Roslyn Kean - , More notes to be added soon. © Popular Wheat Productions logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Introduction music while working - Stormy Weather from The Oscar Peterson Trio Plays The Standards (2016) Musical Concepts Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :)
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Sarah Brayer : Printmaker - Nothing In Isolation
12/04/2025
Sarah Brayer : Printmaker - Nothing In Isolation
For many of us, travel to Japan is something we do once in a while. We save and plan, then journey to a country that offers so much to our mokuhanga practice. But for others, the trip becomes extended, and Japan becomes a place to build a life and make work. Japan becomes central to who they are and how they see the world. On this episode of The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast, I speak with Sarah Brayer, a visual artist who has made her home in Kyoto, where she has created a wide range of visual art such as mokuhanga, poured washi, fusuma murals, and aquatint. In our interview, we focus on Sarah’s mokuhanga history, her studies with Toshi Yoshida, her life in Kyoto and how the city shapes her work. We also discuss her mokuhanga work, how she views the medium and where it fits into her life today. Sarah Brayer - , River Mist Kyoto (1982) 7" x 21" aquatint - is an intaglio printmaking technique used to create rich tonal effects rather than lines alone. By dusting a metal plate with fine resin particles and then heating it to adhere the grains, the artist creates a textured, acid-resistant surface. When the plate is placed in acid, the exposed areas etch around the resin particles, producing a range of tones similar to watercolor washes. By stopping out areas and etching in stages, printmakers can build subtle gradients, deep shadows, and layered atmospheres, making aquatint especially popular for expressive, painterly prints. etching - is an intaglio printmaking process in which an image is created by using acid to bite lines into a metal plate. The plate is first coated with a waxy, acid-resistant ground, and the artist draws through this ground with a needle to expose the metal beneath. When the plate is submerged in acid, the exposed lines are etched into the surface. After the ground is removed, ink is worked into these incised lines, the surface is wiped clean, and dampened paper is pressed onto the plate with a high-pressure press, transferring the inked image. Etching allows for incredibly fine detail, expressive line quality, and a wide range of textures. raku yaki - raku ware is a traditional Japanese pottery style that originated in 16th-century Kyoto and is closely tied to the tea ceremony. Characterized by hand-shaped forms, low-temperature firing, and simple glazes that embody wabi-sabi, it was historically cooled in the open air and produced by the Raku family lineage. In contrast, Western raku refers to a later adaptation in which red-hot pieces are placed into combustible materials to create dramatic crackle and metallic effects, a process distinct from the original Japanese method. Kyoto Seika University - located in Kyoto, Japan, is a leading private institution specializing in art and design education. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as painting, sculpture, graphic design, and manga. Known for its rigorous curriculum, Kyoto Seika emphasizes both practical skills and creative expression. With a strong tradition of nurturing talented artists and designers, the university fosters a dynamic environment that encourages innovation and artistic growth. ukiyo-e - is a multi colour woodblock print generally associated with the Edo Period (1603-1867) of Japan. What began in the 17th Century as prints of only a few colours, evolved into an elaborate system of production and technique into the Meiji Period (1868-1912). With the advent of photography and other forms of printmaking, ukiyo-e as we know it today, ceased production by the late 19th Century. Torii Kyomasu II (1706-1763) Mary Cassatt (1844–1926) was an American painter and printmaker who became a prominent figure in the French Impressionist movement. Known for her intimate portrayals of women and children, she used soft yet expressive color, loose brushwork, and innovative printmaking techniques to capture everyday domestic life. Living much of her career in Paris, she exhibited with artists like Degas, who influenced her approach to composition and perspective. Cassatt’s work remains celebrated for its sensitivity, modernity, and groundbreaking representation of women’s experiences. Ren Brown Collection - is gallery in Bodega Bay, California featuring contemporary Japanese prints, handmade ceramics and jewelry, Japanese antiques, and works by California artists and sculptors. Each piece reflects a dedication to quality, cultural heritage, and creative expression. Micah Schwaberow (1948-2022) - was an American mokuhanga printmaker who fused Western and Eastern imagery to create a unique perspective. His work often featured landscapes, portraits, and cultural themes. Celebration (2015) 10" x 5 1/2" bokashi - is a mokuhanga technique, where the pigment fades from a heavy colour to a softer, broad colour. Made famous by prints designed by Hokusai and Hiroshige, this technique is, for me, the most popular technique utilized by mokuhanga printmakers. There are various types: Ichimoji-bokashi or straight line graduation, used in the above mentioned Hiroshige and Hokusai prints. Ichimoji-mura-bokashi or straight line gradation with uneven edge. Ō-bokashi or wide gradation, Ate-nashi-bokashi or gradation without definition. Futa-iro-bokashi or two tone gradation, and ita-bokashi or softer-edge gradation, where the block is cut in a specific way to achieve this style of gradation. All of these styles of bokashi technique take practice and skill but are very much doable. A wonderful example of bokashi in the sky can be found below, in a print by Paul Binnie. Acropolis - Night (2007) 11.85" × 16.46" Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858) - born in Edo, Hiroshige is famous for his landscape series of that burgeoning city. The most famous series being, One Hundred Famous Views of Edo (1856-1859), and the landcape series, Fifty-Three Stations of the Tōkaidō (1833-1834). His work highlights bokashi, and bright colours. More info about his work can be found, . Sumidagawa (from Forty-Eight Famous Views of Edo) (ca. 1861) 8 7/8" x 6 7/16" Kawase Hasui (1883-1957), a designer of more than six hundred woodblock prints, is one of the most famous artists of the shin-hanga movement of the early twentieth century. Hasui began his career under the guidance of Kaburaki Kiyokata (1878-1971), joining several artistic societies early on. However, it wasn’t until he joined the Watanabe atelier in 1918 that he began to gain significant recognition. Watanabe Shōzaburō (1885-1962) commissioned Hasui to design landscapes of the Japanese countryside, small towns, and scenes of everyday life. Hasui also worked closely with the carvers and printers to achieve the precise quality he envisioned for his prints. Honmonji Temple in Snow at Ikegami (1931) 15.5" x 10.25" Daniel Kelly - is a visual artist and printmaker based in Kyoto, Japan. Daniel Kelly has shown all over the world, and is many museum collections as well. More information can be found, . Three Persimmons (2015) 12″ x 40.5″ nezumi ban - otherwise known as the “mouse block” or “grey block,” this is usually the first base color in a mokuhanga design. Because mokuhanga relies on building color through layered printing, the grey block forms the foundation of the image. This technique was widely used during the golden age of ukiyo-e in the Edo period (1603–1868) and the shin-hanga (new print) period (1910-1960). Mendocino Art Center - is a creative retreat and cultural landmark and is a place where artists and visitors alike can explore art, and connect in a profoundly inspiring coastal environment. More info, . sizing/dosa - is a liquid form (prepared) animal glue which is brushed onto your washi, hanji, or other natural papers to stiffen the paper and prepare it for keeping the colour in your woodblock print. It has come to pass that size tends to be acidic and will break down the print over time. It’s a bit of a double edged sword. Recipes for size can be found, . arches - is a brand of Western watercolour paper that is acid-free. Tōsai Pigment Paste - is a brand of pigments manufactured by Holbein, Japan. They were conceived by mokuhanga printmaker Richard Steiner. Tōsai is the name given to Richard by his teacher. Richard's invteriew with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Kathy Caraccio - is a master printer, artist, curator, professor, and collector who has collaborated with hundreds of artists from around the world. Through her studio, she has fostered a vibrant, supportive community rooted in shared creativity and craft. More info can be found, . Oriental Bleak - mixed media collage 22" x 22" fusuma - is a traditional Japanese sliding panel used as a door or room divider in homes, temples, and tea rooms. Made with a wooden frame covered in layers of paper or cloth, fusuma slide along wooden tracks and can be removed or rearranged to change the layout of a space. They are often decorated with painted landscapes, patterns, or calligraphy. © Popular Wheat Productions logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :)
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Nobuko Yamasaki : Printmaker - Everything Connected
10/31/2025
Nobuko Yamasaki : Printmaker - Everything Connected
Mokuhanga is an artistic medium that can challenge those who practice it. Over a long career, printmakers often feel the desire to see what else they can do with the medium, to push its boundaries and explore where it can take them. On this episode of The Unfinished Print, a mokuhanga podcast, I speak with Nobuko Yamasaki, a mokuhanga printmaker whose career has taken her from Japan to the United States, where she has settled in Michigan and built her life. Nobuko and I talk about her early work and her mokuhanga teacher, Richard Steiner his teachings and the importance of the artist’s name he bestowed upon her. We discuss how mokuhanga continues to evolve in her mind, her use of sumi and how she harnesses its energy, how she incorporates old woodblocks as well as the concept of memory in her work. Nobuko also shares insights on baren making, and her approach to teaching mokuhanga. Please follow The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me theunfinishedprint@gmail.com Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Nobuko Yamasaki - © Popular Wheat Productions logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :)
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Allison Tolman of The Tolman Collection : It's About The Stories
10/16/2025
Allison Tolman of The Tolman Collection : It's About The Stories
Collecting mokuhanga has never been easier. You no longer need to visit galleries as often; you can purchase prints online from anywhere in the world, all from the comfort of your own home. But you’d be doing yourself a disservice to stop there. Seeing prints in person at galleries is a wonderful experience — it allows you to get up close to the work, to see what your potential investment looks like under the lights, and to speak with the people who work in the galleries and collections, who can help guide you toward the right decision. One such gallery is in Tokyo and New York and has a long history of showcasing wonderful contemporary prints — from mokuhanga and aquatint to lithography and other mediums. The Tolman Collection Tokyo, located in the Shibadaimon district of Minato, Tokyo, has been operating for over 50 years and enjoys a strong reputation both in Japan and around the world. In this episode of The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast, I speak with Allison Tolman of The Tolman Collection Tokyo. We discuss how the gallery began — from the hope and a dream of Allison’s parents, Mary and Norman Tolman, who built a life and a business in a new country, to their friendships with many of the most important printmakers of their time. Allison shares why prints remain so vital today, emphasizing their democratic nature. She also discusses the differences between contemporary printmakers in Japan and those in the West, as well as the unique experiences of selling prints in Tokyo versus at The Tolman Collection in New York. Please follow The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me theunfinishedprint@gmail.com Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. The Tolman Collection - , Machida City of Graphic Arts - is a print gallery located in Machida City, Tokyo, Japan. More info can be found, . Kitaoka Fumio (1918-2007) - was a painter who moved onto mokuhanga later in life. Kitaoka was a sōsaku hanga printmaker whose works touched on anti-war themes and Japanese society, emigres and the working class. Tsukiji Fish Market (1988) Tadashige Ono (1909-1990) - was a socially conscience printmaker of Post-War Japan. Tadashige's early works were influenced by the west with German Expressionism and later in his career, as his personal politics began to change, Tadashige;'s prints began to focus on an industrial Japan. House (Hiroshima) (1957) Tōkō Shinoda (1913-2021) - was a calligrapher and painter in Japan. Shinoda saw herself as an artist who combined painting and calligraphy together defying categorization. More information can be found, from The Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto. Sound (ca 1990) lithograph on paper 17 5/8" h x 23 3/8" w Clifton Karhu (1927-2007) - was a mokuhanga printmaker based in Japan. Karhu lived in Japan for most of his life after studying with Tetsuo Yamada and Stanton Macdonald-Wright. HIs themes were of his home city of Kyoto, Japan. More information can be found, . Black Robe (1976) shin hanga - is a style of Japanese woodblock printmaking that emerged in the early 20th century, marking the end of the nishiki-e period. Originating around 1915 under the direction of Watanabe Shōzaburō (1885-1962), the art form responded to the foreign demand for "traditional" Japanese imagery. Shin hanga artists focused on motifs like castles, bridges, famous landscapes, and bamboo forests. The style was initiated when Watanabe discovered Austrian artist Fritz Capelari (1884-1950) and commissioned him to design prints for Watanabe's budding printing house. This collaboration led to the evolution of shin hanga into a distinctive new style of Japanese woodblock printing. The shin hanga movement thrived until its inevitable decline after the Second World War (1939-1945). Shōzaburō Watanabe (1885-1962) - was one of the most important print publishers in Japan in the early 20th Century. His business acumen and desire to preserve the ukiyo-e tradition were incredibly influential for the artists and collectors in Japan and those around the world. Watanabe influenced other publishers, but his work in the genre is unparalleled. The shin-hanga (new print) movement is Watanabe’s, collecting some of the best printers, carvers and designers to work for him. A great article by The Japan Times in 2022 discusses a touring exhibition of Watanabe’s work called Shin Hanga: New Prints of Japan, which can be found . Kawamura Sayaka - is a mokuhanga printmaker based in Japan. Her work has an ethereal quality of mystery and fantasy. More information can be found on her . Bon Voyage IV (2019) 27.56 " × 27.56 " AP - stands for Artist’s Proof. When a printmaker is almost ready to print an edition, they will create a few prints that serve as proofs of the final image before the edition is printed. Gotō Hidehiko (b.1953) - is a mokuhanga printmaker and tool maker based in Japan. He makes and teaches seminars about the construction of the mokuhanga tool, the baren. Sound Of The Waves (2016) 15" × 12" Zōjōji Daimon - is a Buddhist temple in Minato, Tokyo of the Jōdo-shū (Pure Land) sect of Buddhism David Rockefeller (1915-2017) - was an American economist and investment banker who led Chase Manhattan Corporation as its chairman and CEO. From 2004 until his passing in 2017, he was the oldest living member of the Rockefeller family. The youngest of five sons, he was the child of John D. Rockefeller Jr. and Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, and the grandson of John D. Rockefeller and Laura Spelman Rockefeller. Hasegawa Yuichi (1945-2025) - was a woodblock printmaker from Aizu in Fukushima Prefecture. He was from a family of lacquerware makers. Hasegawa incorporated lacquer resin and metallic paints into his reduction woodblocks, giving them a distinctive texture and gleam. Deeply influenced by Zen and the natural world, he aimed to capture the power and splendor of nature in his prints. Night Sky No. 5 (2000) Seiko Kawachi - is a mokuhanga printmaker and painter based in Japan. His work is known for its rich use of color and dynamic energy. A longtime printmaking instructor at Tama Art University, he experienced a turning point in his middle age when he began exploring the influence of Hokusai. Using contemporary materials, his large, powerful prints capture the movement and vitality of the natural world. Object: The Flying: Ki (The Flying: Introduction) (1985) mokuhanga and intaglio, 65" × 36" Tama Art University - located in Tokyo, Japan, is one of the country’s leading institutions for art and design education. Founded in 1935, it offers programs in fine arts, design, architecture, and media arts, fostering both traditional and contemporary approaches to creativity. Known for its strong emphasis on experimentation and individual expression, Tama has produced many influential artists, designers, and educators who have shaped Japan’s modern art scene. More info, . © Popular Wheat Productions logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :)
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Elizabeth Forrest : Printmaker - Have Baren, Will Travel
09/29/2025
Elizabeth Forrest : Printmaker - Have Baren, Will Travel
For everyone listening to today’s episode—especially if you’re a mokuhanga printmaker—you can probably trace your first step into the art form back to a single person, someone who sparked your journey into mokuhanga, however it has evolved over time. On this episode of The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast, I speak with that person for me: Elizabeth Forrest. Elizabeth was my first mokuhanga teacher, the one who encouraged me to study the practice and explore its technical depths. Elizabeth is an accomplished printmaker with a long and varied career. We discuss her discovery of mokuhanga here in Toronto, her experiences living and working in Japan, and how she has adapted her art through life changes and culture shock. She also shares her thoughts on the importance of residencies, her love of washi, and the ways she sources her materials today. Please follow The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me theunfinishedprint@gmail.com Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Elizabeth Forrest : , Ontario College of Art & Design University : has been a mainstay of art and design education in the city of Toronto, Ontario, Canada since 1876. More information, . Akira Kurosaki (1937-2019) - was one of the most influential woodblock print artists of the modern era. His work, while seemingly abstract, moved people with its vibrant colour and powerful composition. He was a teacher and invented the “,” which is a great baren to begin your mokuhanga journey with. At the 2021 Mokuhanga Conference in Nara, Japan there was a tribute exhibit of his . Azusa Gallery has a nice selection of his work, . Kyoto Seika University - located in Kyoto, Japan, is a leading private institution specializing in art and design education. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as painting, sculpture, graphic design, and manga. Known for its rigorous curriculum, Kyoto Seika emphasizes both practical skills and creative expression. With a strong tradition of nurturing talented artists and designers, the university fosters a dynamic environment that encourages innovation and artistic growth. sizing paper - at times mokuhanga printmakers will size their paper. Size is made from water, animal glue (rabbit, horse), and alum. What the size does is keep the pigments the artist uses from “bleeding” into the outer edges of the paper. There are many recipes of size, is one that artist Walter J. Phillips used. and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Charles Spitzack : Printmaker - The Balancing Act Of Water
08/31/2025
Charles Spitzack : Printmaker - The Balancing Act Of Water
For many artists, an art career takes many twists and turns—an adventure shaped by different mediums, jobs, and ways of sustaining creative work while at the same time, educating oneself with the histories of your chosen path. On this episode of The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast, I speak with printmaker Charles Spitzack. We talk about his discovery of mokuhanga and how it connects to his broader printmaking practice. Charles shares his early experiences making mokuhanga, his teaching methods, and how his understanding of the medium developed through a Western American perspective. He also speaks about his time at the Mokuhanga Project Space, and his thoughts on the differences between oil-based and water-based mokuhanga. Please follow The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me theunfinishedprint@gmail.com Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Charles Spitzack - , Seattle Print Arts - is a printmaking association based in Seattle, Washington, United States. It maintains a membership and is dedicated to the exchange of knowledge related to various printmaking practices. More info can be found, . High Point Center for Printmaking -is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. It is dedicated to increasing the understanding of printmaking and operates a co-op, gallery, and educational programs. More info can be found, . Cornish College of the Arts - is an independent art college located in Seattle, Washington, United States. Its programs emphasize experimentation and critical thinking. More info can be found, . Mokuhanga (木版画) - is a Japanese word meaning "wood" and "print." Traditionally, it refers to a relief printing method using woodblocks, water, natural handmade papers, and water-based pigments. With the rise of the sōsaku hanga (creative print) movement in the early to mid 20th century, mokuhanga expanded to include works made with Western oil pigments as well. Today, mokuhanga can be difficult to define, as many artists experiment with new approaches while others remain dedicated to traditional water-based methods. This balance between innovation and tradition shows that mokuhanga is limitless, continually evolving while still grounded in its past. sōsaku-hanga - or creative prints, is a style of printmaking which is predominantly, although not exclusively, prints made by one person. It started in the early twentieth century in Japan, in the same period as the shin-hanga movement. The artist designs, carves, and prints their own works. The designs, especially in the early days, may seem rudimentary but the creation of self-made prints was a breakthrough for printmakers moving away from where only a select group of carvers, printers and publishers created woodblock prints. Stephen Hazel (1934-20120 - was a painter and printmaker based in the Pacific Northwest. He created works on paper, and educated upon the subject. More info can be found, . Beautiful Display 10: Beauties of Chinatown (1977) 24" x 17 11/16" Katheleen Rabel - is an American printmaker, painter and sculptor. More info can be found, . Penedo Alto (sōsaku hanga) 50″ x 39″ Hideo Hagiwara (1913-2007) - was a mokuhanga printmaker who came of age during the sōsaku hanga period of the mid 20th Century in Japan. He studied printmaking with Un'ichi Hiratsuka (1896-1997). Hagiwara made prints that were expressive of the self and abstract. He taught at Oregon State University in 1967. Lady No. 6 (1975) 24.75" x 18.25" - is the registration system used by printmakers in order to line up the colour woodblocks with your key block, or outline block, carved first. floating kentō - is like the traditional kentō registration technique but is carved on an "L" shaped piece of wood, and not onto the wood block. monotype print - is a unique print created from an image painted or drawn on a smooth surface, such as glass or metal, and then transferred to paper. Unlike most printmaking methods, where multiple copies of the same image can be produced, a monotype typically has a single, one-of-a-kind image. It's called a "mono" type because it is not part of an edition like traditional prints (e.g., lithographs, etchings), where you can make multiple copies. Mike Lyon - is an American artist. His medium has varied throughout his career such as "square tiles," or "pixels," through to making mokuhanga, monoprinting, and machine-assisted etching, drawing and mezzotint. Mike Lyon also has a large woodblock print collection which he has curated for the public, . More information about his work can be found, . Mike's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Grass 4 (2010) 77" x 22" - is a Japanese/Canadian contemporary artist, and sculptor, who lives and works in Oakville, Ontario, Canada. She has focused much of her artistic life on making mokuhanga and has gained critical acclaim for it. Naoko Matsubara's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Conducting (2004) 22.05" × 15.59" - is a Japanese contemporary artist, and sculptor, who works predominantly in mokuhanga. He has produced an incredible mount of work. Katsu's interview with the Unfinished Print can be found, . On The Dawn of Night and Fog (2025) 39.37" in × 78.74" Antonio Frasconi (1919-2013) - was a Urugyuan printmaker who lived and worked in the United States. He cerated coloured woodcuts and was an educator and author. Frasconi's themes could be political in nature. More info can be found, . Cows (1955) 7 1/2" x 12 15/16" . Walter J. Phillips (1884–1963) - was a British-Canadian printmaker who began his career as a commercial artist. After moving to Canada, he produced etchings, watercolors, and color woodcuts. Influenced by Japanese ukiyo-e, Phillips’s prints offer a distinctive view of Canada in the early to mid-20th century.My interview with Sophie Lavoie of The Muse/Lake Of The Woods/Douglas Family Arts Centre about the life and times of Walter J. Phillips can be found, . Warren's Landing, Lake Winnipeg (1931) 6.30" × 9.45" Kathleen Hargrave - is a printmaker and kiln formed glass maker. Kathleen explored various printmaking methods but uses mokuhanga in her practice. Kathleen's mokuhanga is abstract and uses colour in a fantastic way. More info can be found, . Resilience 5 Pratt Fine Arts Center - is a nonprofit arts educator in Seattle, Washington. It offers classes and instruction on various artistic expressions such as blacksmithing, glass, jewelry, paintings and printmaking. More info can be found, . Mokuhanga Project Space - is a mokuhanga residency located in Walla Walla, Washington, USA. It was established in 2016 and is led by printmaker Keiko Hara. My interview with Keiko Hara and Benjamin Selby of MPS can be found, . More info can be found, . Shoichi Kitamura - is a woodblock carver and printmaker based in Kyoto, Japan. Shoichi has been involved in MI Lab through his demonstrations on carving. More info can be found, . Utagawa Kuniyoshi - from The Series Bravery Matched With The Twelve Zodiac Signs. A Modern Reproduction 4.13" x 11.15" (2017) printed and carved by Shoichi Kitamura - is an established artist who works predominantly in mokuhanga. Her book Japanese Woodblock Print Workshop is one of the most authoritative books on the subject and has influenced many mokuhanga artists. April's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . It Happened To Me (1995) 11" x 14" Andrew Stone - is an American mokuhanga based in Florence, Italy. He is also a baren maker. The baren is a mokuhanga specific tool. Andrew's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Tutto Bene? (2024) Davidson Galleries - is a gallery situated in Seattle, Washington. Opening in 1973 Davidson Galleries focus on works on paper. In their stable of artists is Charles Spitzack and Andy Farkas. More info can be found, . SGC International - the Southern Graphics Council is a member supported printmaking organization which supports printmakers throughout the world. It is located in Kennesaw, Georgia, United States. More info can be found, . Karen Kunc - is an American printmaker and Professor Emeritus at the University of Nebraska Lincoln and is based in Nebraska. Karen Kunc works in various artistic and printmaking styles but has worked in mokuhanga for many years. My interview with Karen Kunc for The Unfinished Print can be found, . More information can be found on her website, . Weight of Air (2018) 12" x 24" Woodcut, etching, pochoir, watercolor Tollman Collection - is a well known Japanese art gallery located in Daimon, Tokyo, Japan and New York City, NY. More information can be found, . Ballinglen - is an arts foundation based in Ballycastle, Co Mayo, Ireland. The groups aim is to "enhance cultural awareness," of North County Mayo. This is done via fellowships, education, exhibitions and workshops. More info can be found, . Pomegranate - is a company which sells items such as jigsaw puzzles, holiday cards, etc using different types of artists and their work in these pieces. More info can be found, . Gustave Baumann (1881-1971) - was a colour woodcut printmaker, and painter of German descent who made his life in the United States. More info can be found, . Marigolds (1960) colour woodcut 12 7/8" x 12 7/8" © Popular Wheat Productions logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Intro music by Oscar Peterson, I Got It Bad (And That Ain't Good) from Night Train (1963) Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Kay Watanabe : Printmaker - The Definition of Beauty
07/30/2025
Kay Watanabe : Printmaker - The Definition of Beauty
If you're a creative person, going abroad, exploring the world, living in new surroundings, seeing new things can add a new dimension to your work. It can inspire you to see your practice in a new light. The influences you gather over time, especially through travel, can only enrich what you create. On this episode of The Unfinished Print, a mokuhanga podcast, I speak with printmaker Kay Watanabe. Kay has spent many years splitting her time between Australia and Japan, and in doing so, she’s developed her mokuhanga and other print work across two distinct cultural landscapes. We discuss what it means to create in those two different spaces under different circumstances and how Kay navigates this duality, we also discuss her love of washi, the way she develops her prints, and how mokuhanga fits into her broader artistic process. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me theunfinishedprint@gmail.com Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Kay Watanabe - - is an art gallery in the historic Okuno Building in Ginza, Tokyo, Japan. Munakata Shikō (志功棟方) - (1903-1975) arguably one of the most famous modern printmakers; Shikō is renowned for his prints of women, animals, the supernatural and Buddhist deities. He made his prints with an esoteric fervour where his philosophies about mokuhanga were just as interesting as his print work. Helen Frankenthaler (1928–2011) was a prominent American abstract expressionist painter known for her role in the Color Field painting movement. Her innovative technique involved staining unprimed canvas with thinned oil paint, creating a distinctive luminous effect. "Mountains and Sea" (1952) is a notable example of her influential work. Frankenthaler's contributions have left a lasting impact on postwar American art. Frankenthaler began to make woodcut prints in 1973 and was influenced by Utagawa Hiroshige (1797–1858). More info about her prints can be found at the Frankenthaler Foundation, . Yoshida Hiroshi (1876-1950) - a watercolorist, oil painter, and woodblock printmaker. Is associated with the resurgence of the woodblock print in Japan, and in the West. It was his early relationship with Watanabe Shōzaburō, having his first seven prints printed by the Shōzaburō atelier. This experience made Hiroshi believe that he could hire his own carvers and printers and produce woodblock prints, which he did in 1925. - is a painter and printmaker based in Australia. Seraphina Martin - is a printmaker based in Australia. More info can be found , at Sydney Printmakers. Terry McKenna is a mokuhanga printmaker and teacher residing in Karuizawa, Japan. He received guidance in the art form from Richard Steiner, a prominent mokuhanga printmaker based in Kyoto. Terry established the Karuizawa Mokuhanga School, a renowned residency dedicated to mokuhanga education, located in Karuizawa, Japan. Further details about Terry and his school can be found, . Additionally, you can listen to Terry's interview with The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast, and Richard Steiner's interview . mokulito - a type of lithography which incorporated woodblock. Artist Danielle Creenaune uses mokulito in her work. She has a fine detailed explanation on its uses, . International Mokuhanga Conference - is a bi-yearly conference dedicated to mokuhanga which started in 2011 by the International Mokuhanga Association. Each conference is themed. The latest conference was in 2021, delayed a year because of the pandemic. More information can be found, . monotype print - is a unique print created from an image painted or drawn on a smooth surface, such as glass or metal, and then transferred to paper. Unlike most printmaking methods, where multiple copies of the same image can be produced, a monotype typically has a single, one-of-a-kind image. It's called a "mono" type because it is not part of an edition like traditional prints (e.g., lithographs, etchings), where you can make multiple copies. Antoni Tàpies - (1923-2012) was a Catalan painter, sculptor, and art theorist renowned for his expressive and textural work that bridged the gap between abstract expressionism and material-based art. © Popular Wheat Productions logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Michael Verne : Gallerist - Your Eyes And Your Heart
06/30/2025
Michael Verne : Gallerist - Your Eyes And Your Heart
Positivity is at the heart of any kind of success. A desire to succeed, paired with a positive mindset, good friends, and hard work, can create momentum and growth in any direction you choose. On this episode of The Unfinished Print, a Mokuhanga Podcast, I speak with Michael Verne, a gallerist specializing in Japanese prints and paintings. Michael shares his approach to success, the power of positivity in business, and how he navigates the ups and downs of running a small, focused gallery. Through rich stories, both his own and those of the artists he represents, Michael offers insight into how storytelling shapes his business, sustains its growth, and supports educating people about mokuhanga and Japanese art. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me theunfinishedprint@gmail.com Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Michael Verne and The Verne Collection - The Metropolitan Museum of Art - is the largest art museum in North and South America. It began to be assembled by John Jay (1817-1894) in the late 19th century. Incorporated in 1870, the museum has collected many essential pieces, such as the works of Henri Matisse (1869-1954) and Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841-1919). For more information about the MET, you can find it . Daniel Kelly - is a visual artist and printmaker based in Kyoto, Japan. Daniel Kelly has shown all over the world, and is many museum collections as well. More information can be found, . Morning Calm (1983) 14.5" x 20.5" Tomikichirō Tokuriki (1902-2000) - was a Kyoto based mokuhanga printmaker and teacher. His work touched on many themes and styles. From “creative prints” or sōsaku hanga in Japanese, and his publisher/printer prints, or shin hanga prints of traditional Japanese landscapes. Dance of Shimazu (1950's) Sanford Smith and Works On Paper Exhibit - Sanford Smith (1939-2024) was one of the more important New York City art promoters of his time. Founding Sanford L. Smith + Associates, Sanford Smith created many art fairs such as the Works On Paper show, now known as Art On Paper which focused on works on paper such as prints, watercolours and photographs. More information can be found, . Willy Loman - is a fictional character in the novel Death of as Salesman by Arthur Miller, first published in 1949. Sadao Watanabe (1913-1996) - was a stencil and dyeing printmaker (katazome 型染め) from Japan. His works were specifically Biblical in nature. His work was also in stained glass which can be found in Nagoya, Aichi, Japan. Eve (1965) John Carroll University - is a private Jesuit University located in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, USA and founded in 1886. New Heights Podcast - is a podcast hosted by American football players Jason and Travis Kelce. It is produced by Michael Verne's son Brian Verne who is the CEO of Wave Sports and Entertainment. The Armoury Show - is an annual international art fair held in New York City, primarily focusing on contemporary art by living artists, but also featuring works by 20th-century masters. Pace Gallery - is a gallery located in New York City and founded in 1960. Today the gallery is a leader in exhibiting some of the top artists in their media. There are galleries in London, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Seoul, Geneva and East Hampton. More information can be found, . Joel Stewart - is an American visual artist based in Kyoto, Japan. Joel works in ceramics, installation, printmaking and mixed media. More information about Joel can be found, . Karatsu (2016) watercolour on paper 30" x 22" Quiet Elegance - is a book published by the Charles E. Tuttle Company in 1997 written by Betsy Franco and Michael Verne. The Charles E. Tuttle Company is now called simply Tuttle. Dan Rather - is an American journalist who was the head anchor of the CBC Evening News from 1981 - 2005. Joshua Rome - is an American mokuhanga printmaker based Vermont after spending many years in Japan. His themes are of landscapes and the human condition. More information can be found, . Mixing Hours (1998) shibui (渋い) - is a Japanese concept that refers to a subtle, simple, and refined beauty. Yuko Kimura - is a contemporary printmaker based in California who used etching, aquatint, monotype, indigo dye, and cyanotype on pleated, stitched or twisted paper for her works. Yuko creates process videos on her website so you can see her process of her complex works. More information can be found, . Fusion no. 22 2010 etching and enamel on copper in abaca handmade paper 8" x 6" wabi sabi - is a traditional Japanese aesthetic concept that embraces the beauty of imperfection, impermanence, and simplicity. Rooted in Zen Buddhism, it values natural materials, asymmetry. Takauchi Seihō (1864 - 1942)- was a painter of Nihonga. His paintings were famous because of his travels to the West and the influences gathered from that. More information can be found, . Spring and Autumn (left screen) c 1889 Allen Memorial Art Museum - is an art museum located in Oberlin, Ohio and was founded in 1917. Katustori Hamanishi - is a mezzotint artist known for his diptychs , triptychs and quadtychs. More information can be found, . Cosmos Field (2022) 23.75" x 17.75" mezzotint Shigeki Kuroda - is a visual artist who works in aquatint, mezzotint, drypoint, and etching. For more information about his work can be found, . Mild Breeze (1953) 25.1" x 18.1" etching and aquatint Clifton Karhu (1927-2007) - was a mokuhanga printmaker based in Japan. Karhu lived in Japan for most of his life after studying with Tetsuo Yamada and Stanton Macdonald-Wright. HIs themes were of his home city of Kyoto, Japan. More information can be found, . Katsura Moonlight (1982) 15.75" x 11./81" Tolman Collection - is a well known Japanese art gallery located in Daimon, Tokyo, Japan. More information can be found, . Toko Shinoda (1913-2021) - was a Japanese visual artist who was made famous for her works in Sumi ink paintings and prints. More information can be found, . Winter Green (1990) ink on paper Hideo Takeda - is a Tokyo based graphic illustrator, mokuhanga printmaker, and all around artist who challenges what it means to be an artist in this modern world. More information can be found, . Green (2009) Painting 13" x 9.5" Sarah Brayer - is a visual artist who is based in Kyoto, Japan. Her works are predominantly poured Japanese paper (washi). Sarah was the first Western artist to work at the Taki paper mill in Echizen. This is where she currently make her paperworks. Sarah have worked continuously in Echizen since 1986 as the only Western artist to do so. Sarah Brayer has also produced mokuhanga in her career. More information can be found, . ' Sea Meets Sky (Japan Blue Series) woodblock monotype, chine colle, 16" x 14" Cameron Bailey - is a mokuhanga printmaker based in Queens, New York. His mokuhanga technique is in reduction where Cameron creates beautiful and powerful landscapes. More information can be found, . Tempest (2025) 16" x 24" Shirō Kasamatsu (1898–1991) was a mokuhanga print designer during the shin-hanga movement of the early 20th century, and later focused on his own mokuhanga printmaking during the sōsaku-hanga period of the 1950's. More information can be found, . Co Corridor (1960's/1970's) oban 10"x 15" Yoshida Hiroshi (1876-1950) - a watercolorist, oil painter, and woodblock printmaker. Is associated with the resurgence of the woodblock print in Japan, and in the West. It was his early relationship with Watanabe Shōzaburō, having his first seven prints printed by the Shōzaburō atelier. This experience made Hiroshi believe that he could hire his own carvers and printers and produce woodblock prints, which he did in 1925. The Acropolis At Night (1925) 10.13" x 16.5" Kawase Hasui (1883-1957), a designer of more than six hundred woodblock prints, is one of the most famous artists of the shin-hanga movement of the early twentieth century. Hasui began his career under the guidance of Kaburaki Kiyokata (1878-1971), joining several artistic societies early on. However, it wasn’t until he joined the Watanabe atelier in 1918 that he began to gain significant recognition. Watanabe Shōzaburō (1885-1962) commissioned Hasui to design landscapes of the Japanese countryside, small towns, and scenes of everyday life. Hasui also worked closely with the carvers and printers to achieve the precise quality he envisioned for his prints. Mishima River, Mutsu (1919) 14" 9" Shibata Zeshin (1807 - 1891) - was a laquer ware painter and print designer during the 19th Century. Album of Lacquer Pictures by the Venerable Zeshin (1887) 6.5" x 7" Kiyoshi Saitō (1907-1997) - was a Japanese woodblock printmaker and artist who worked in the sōsaku hanga style of mokuhanga. HIs fame outside of Japan was fairly comprehensive with his peak fame being in the 1950’s and 1960’s. For a comprehensive book on his life and times, Saitō Kiyoshi: Graphic Awakening published by The John & Mable Ringling Museum is an excellent source. Can be found, . Lecture by Dr. Paget about Saitō can be found, . My interview with Professor Paget can be found, . Otaru, Hokkaido (1948) 18" x 24" Munakata Shikō (1903-1975) - arguably one of the most famous modern printmakers; Shikō is renowned for his prints of women, animals, the supernatural and Buddhist deities. He made his prints with an esoteric fervour where his philosophies about mokuhanga were just as interesting as his print work. Princess Showing Upper Arm (1958) 9" x 7.5" Sekino Jun'ichirō (1914-1988) - was a mokuhanga printmaker who helped establish the sōsaku hanga, creative print movement in Japan. His themes were of landscapes, animals and the abstract. Sekino exhibited and became a member with Nihon Hanga Kyōkai and studied with Ōnchi Kōshirō (1891-1955) and Maekawa Senpan (1888-1960). Cats and There Kittens (1960) 18" x 13" Katsuyuki Nishijima - is a contemporary mokuhanga printmaker based in Japan who carves and prints his own work. His prints are colourful and focused on the Japanese landscape. More information can be found, . Moon Over Lake 10.25" x 14.75" Mayumi Oda - is a Buddhist teacher and artist based in Hawai’i. Her artwork has gained international recognition, having traveled worldwide. In addition to her artistic pursuits, Mayumi is an environmental activist and resides and works at Ginger Hill Farm, an eco-retreat on the Big Island of Hawai’i. Explore more about Mayumi Oda’s work, . Bell Telephone (1976) 21" x 15" colour screen print Nicholas Cladis - is an artist and paper historian who teaches and lives in Iowa. He lived in Echizen from 2014-2020 where he studied how to make washi, taught at the Fukui Prefectural University, as well as being the International liaison for the paper making union. More info can be found on his website, . You can find Nicholas' episode with The Unfinished Print, . Craig Anczelowtiz - is a mixed media collage artist who splits his time between New York and Japan. Craig's works focus on Japenese themes and nostalgia. More information can be found, . Meiji Beauty #8 (2025) vintage Japanese papers, gouache, plexi, gold leaf, and ink on thick washi 20" x 28" © Popular Wheat Productions Opening and closing musical credit -Next Journey by Robomoque (2023) on Gunn-R-Rotation Records logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Andrea Starkey : Printmaker - Tiny Imperfections
05/31/2025
Andrea Starkey : Printmaker - Tiny Imperfections
Making mokuhanga takes dedication. It demands energy, a sense of empowerment, and joy in the process. It’s that passion that pushes you forward, to evolve and mature within the art form. On this episode of The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast, I speak with printmaker Andrea Starkey. Andrea is deeply passionate about mokuhanga—the way it feels, the process of creating, and how each print takes her on a personal and creative journey. We discuss how she expresses herself through mokuhanga, her themes, and her love of nature. We also explore the world of selling prints, and how to navigate being an artist in the age of AI. And as always, we dive into Andrea’s tools, her paper, and how she uses them to create her beautiful work. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me theunfinishedprint@gmail.com Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Andrea Starkey - , , Tree No. 43. - 4" x 11" renderer - is a system, program, or process that takes data and converts it into a visual or usable format, usually for display on a screen or output in some other way. What it renders and how depends on the content. reduction printmaking - is a process in printmaking where the printmaker cuts away on a piece of wood, or linoleum. After every carving, the printmaker makes an impression with pigments, beginning with lighter colours, gradually using darker colours. William H. Mays has a fine description of reduction on his website, . Mike Lyon - is an American artist. His medium has varied throughout his career such as "square tiles," or "pixels," through to making mokuhanga, monoprinting, and machine-assisted etching, drawing and mezzotint. Mike Lyon also has a large woodblock print collection which he has curated for the public, . More information about his work can be found, . Mike's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Clover - 12" x 12" (2017) Dick Blick Art Supplies - is an art supply store with various brick and mortar stores throughout the United States, as well as online. Founded in 1911 by Dick Blick in Galesburg, Illinois, BLICK, as it’s more commonly known, sells various types of art supplies, much like Jerry’s Artarama. More info, . Sekishu washi - is a traditional Japanese paper from the Iwami region in Shimane Prefecture, with a history spanning around 1300 years and references dating back to the Heian period. Made primarily from mitsumata and gampi plant fibers, it is known for its strength, flexibility, smooth texture, and resistance to damage, making it ideal for printing, calligraphy, and fine stationery. The paper is still crafted using traditional methods such as nagashizuki and tamezuki, which involve screens made of bamboo or Japanese nutmeg and the use of aibika as a natural binder. These time-honored techniques and materials have contributed to the recognition and preservation of Sekishu washi as a significant cultural craft. More information regarding Sekishu washi can be found at Kokei Japan, . Akua - are water-based pigments used in intaglio, mokuhanga, and monotype. stair treads - are the horizontal parts of a staircase that you step on as you go up or down. They are the flat surfaces where your feet land. They can also be used in different art forms such as sculpture, prints, and architectural artistic practices. kitakata - is a high-quality Japanese washi paper traditionally made in Fukushima Prefecture, using Philippine gampi fibers and sulphite pulp. The gampi provides a natural sheen, smooth texture, and resistance to moisture and insects, while the sulphite pulp adds strength and consistency. Known for its warm tone and moderate absorbency, Kitakata is ideal for bookbinding, mokuhanga, and other types of printmaking. Its surface holds fine details well, making it a favorite among artists for both traditional and contemporary work. sepia - is a reddish brown colour. Can be found in various pigments. Baren Forum - is one of the oldest continuous online communities dedicated to mokuhanga. It serves artists, scholars, and enthusiasts who engage with the medium through both practical and academic approaches. The forum is especially known for its print exchanges, where practitioners share their work based on a shared theme, size, or topic. More information about the Baren Forum and its activities can be found, . Woodblock Dreams - was a mokuhanga block started in 2005 by Annie Bissett, a mokuhanga printmaker based in the United States. Annie's new blog can be found, . Annie's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Saitō Kiyoshi (1907-1997) - was a Japanese woodblock printmaker and artist who worked in the sōsaku hanga style of mokuhanga. HIs fame outside of Japan was fairly comprehensive with his peak fame being in the 1950’s and 1960’s. For a comprehensive book on his life and times, Saitō Kiyoshi: Graphic Awakening published by The John & Mable Ringling Museum is an excellent source. Can be found, . Lecture by Dr. Paget about Saitō can be found, . My interview with Professor Paget can be found, . Village of Miho - 16.81" × 11.69" (1960) Yoshida Hiroshi (1876-1950) - a watercolorist, oil painter, and woodblock printmaker. Is associated with the resurgence of the woodblock print in Japan, and in the West. It was his early relationship with Watanabe Shōzaburō, having his first seven prints printed by the Shōzaburō atelier. This experience made Hiroshi believe that he could hire his own carvers and printers and produce woodblock prints, which he did in 1925. Seta Bridge - 10.83" × 15.59" (1933) Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839–1892) was a renowned Japanese woodblock printmaker and one of the last great masters of the ukiyo-e tradition. He is best known for his dramatic and emotionally intense imagery, particularly in series like One Hundred Aspects of the Moon and Thirty-Six Ghosts. Working during a time of cultural upheaval in the Meiji period, Yoshitoshi blended traditional techniques with modern themes, Yoshitoshi is famous as a print designer for his expressive linework, rich colour, and innovations in print design during this period of Japanese history. Unknown reprint - Date unknown Echizen - is a region in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, known for its long history of papermaking. The area is home to many paper artisans. One notable figure is Iwano Ichibei. He is a Living National Treasure in papermaking and the ninth generation of his family still making paper today. More information can be found here.in , and here in . monotype print - is a unique print created from an image painted or drawn on a smooth surface, such as glass or metal, and then transferred to paper. Unlike most printmaking methods, where multiple copies of the same image can be produced, a monotype typically has a single, one-of-a-kind image. It's called a "mono" type because it is not part of an edition like traditional prints (e.g., lithographs, etchings), where you can make multiple copies. Okawara washi - is a traditional Japanese paper made in Japan and sold by Awagami Paper. It is typically composed of an even blend of Japanese kozo and Manila hemp, though some versions may also include wood pulp. The paper is known for its strength, flexibility, and subtle texture, making it suitable for printmaking and other fine art applications. While weights may vary, Okawara usually ranges between 50 and 75 gsm. Dropshipping - is a business model where a seller doesn't keep products in stock, but instead sells products that are shipped directly from a third-party supplier, like a wholesaler or manufacturer, to the customer. Narcissus no. 4 - 6" x 8" © Popular Wheat Productions Opening and closing musical credit - background noise from Madison Square Park in New York City. logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Mokuhanga Magic! w/ Vladimir Ivaneanu & Soetkin Everaert
04/29/2025
Mokuhanga Magic! w/ Vladimir Ivaneanu & Soetkin Everaert
Mokuhanga is carried by those with a desire to explore the medium to its fullest, to foray into uncharted territory, to educate many, and to draw more people to the art form. On this episode of The Unfinished Print, I speak with Vladimir Ivaneanu and Soetkin Everaert, co-founders of the Japanese print promotion project Mokuhanga Magic! We discuss how Mokuhanga Magic! began, exploring the mokuhanga journeys of both Soetkin and Vladimir, dive into the art of collaboration, share stories of their travels to Japan, and reflect on the current state of mokuhanga today. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me .com Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Mokuhanga Magic! - Emil Nolde (1867–1956) was a German-Danish Expressionist known for his bold use of colour, deep interest in spirituality and the human condition. As a printmaker, Nolde was a pioneering figure in early 20th-century German art, producing powerful woodcuts, etchings, and lithographs that often explored biblical themes, folklore, and dramatic human expressions. Despite being banned by the Nazi regime—who labeled his work as "degenerate art"—Nolde continued to create in secret. Nolde's printmaking helped shape the visual language of German Expressionism and influenced generations of artists. Durchbrechendes Licht (Light Breaking Through), 1950 oil on canvas 68.5 x 88.5 cm MEXT (Mombukagakusho) Scholarship is a prestigious academic scholarship offered by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology to support international students studying in Japan. Established in 1954, it provides funding for various academic levels, including undergraduate, graduate, vocational, and research programs. The scholarship covers tuition, a monthly stipend, and round-trip airfare. Students can apply either through Japanese embassies (Embassy Recommendation) or directly through Japanese universities (University Recommendation). It aims to promote international exchange and has supported over 65,000 students from around the world. is a Scottish born mokuhanga printmaker and teacher who uses the medium of mokuhanga creating pieces of work that are third dimensional, abstract and sculptural. Little Loch (Lochin) 47 x 36 cm Variable edition of 10 Nagasawa Art Park (MI Lab) Awaji City - Nagasawa Art Park was an artist-in-residence program located in Awaji City, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan. It was open for 12 years before evolving into MI Lab in 2012. More info, . Tintin is a fictional character and the protagonist of The Adventures of Tintin, a comic book series created by Belgian cartoonist Hergé (1907-1983) (the pen name of Georges Remi). First appearing in 1929, Tintin is a young Belgian reporter and adventurer who travels the world, often finding himself embroiled in dangerous plots, solving mysteries, and fighting injustice. The series became internationally beloved for its clean graphic style, detailed research, and engaging storytelling, making Tintin one of the most iconic comic book characters of the 20th century. MI Lab is a mokuhanga artists residency located in Kawaguchi-ko, near Mount Fuji. More info can be found, . manga is a style of Japanese comic books and graphic novels that encompasses a wide range of genres and themes, appealing to audiences of all ages. Typically published in black and white, manga is known for its distinctive art style, expressive characters, and cinematic storytelling. It is often serialized in magazines before being collected into volumes called tankōbon. Manga covers everything from action, romance, and fantasy to slice-of-life, horror, and science fiction. It has deep cultural roots in Japan but has gained massive popularity worldwide, influencing global comic art and animation, and serving as the foundation for many anime adaptations. hanmoto system is the Edo Period (1603-1868) collaboration system of making woodblock prints in Japan. The system was about using, carvers, printers, and craftsmen by various print publishers in order to produce woodblock prints. The system consisted of the following professions; publisher, artist, carver, and printer. Motoharu Asaka - is a woodblock carver (horishi) and printer based in Shinjuku, Tōkyō Japan. Tuula Moilanen - is a Finnish mokuhanga printmaker and painter based in Finland. She lived and studied in Kyōto from 1989 to 2012, where she learned her printmaking at Kyōto Seika University and from printmaker Akira Kurosaki (1937–2019). Her work can be found . Her interview with The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast can be found . Stake Out By the Bridge 21x30cm from Sea Lion Series (2023) Kari Laitinen - is a Finnish artist and printmaker based in Finland. His works explore colour and dimension. More information can be found, . He helped write, with Tuula Moilanen, the book Woodblock Printmaking with Oil-based Inks and the Japanese Watercolour Woodcut. It was published in 1999. William Blake (1757–1827) was an English poet, painter, and printmaker known for his visionary and symbolic works that combined text and image. Though largely unrecognized in his lifetime, he is now celebrated as a key figure of the Romantic era. His major works, such as Songs of Innocence and of Experience and The Marriage of Heaven and Hell, explore themes of spirituality, imagination, and social critique. Blake’s unique style and integration of poetry and visual art have made him a lasting influence on both literature and art. Keiko Kadota (1942-2017) - was the director of Nagasawa Art Park at Awaji City from 1997-2011, and then of MI Lab at Lake Kawaguchi from 2011 until her passing. Terry McKenna is a mokuhanga printmaker and teacher residing in Karuizawa, Japan. He received guidance in the art form from Richard Steiner, a prominent mokuhanga printmaker based in Kyoto. Terry established the Karuizawa Mokuhanga School, a renowned residency dedicated to mokuhanga education, located in Karuizawa, Japan. Further details about Terry and his school can be found, . Additionally, you can listen to Terry's interview with The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast, and Richard Steiner's interview . Storm Clearing Wattle Flat (2015) 8.6" x 14" Albrecht Dürer (1471–1528) was a German Renaissance artist known for his woodcuts, engravings, and detailed drawings. Based in Nuremberg, he brought international recognition to printmaking with works like Melencolia Iand The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Dürer combined Northern European detail with Italian Renaissance ideals, influencing art across Europe and contributing to theories on proportion, perspective, and human anatomy. Michihamono - is a tool manufacturer for woodblock printmaking as well as other woodworking. Located in Tōkyō. You can find their online store, . © Popular Wheat Productions Opening and closing musical credit - background noise from Gyozanomanshu Kami Shakuji restaurant. logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Karen Kunc : Printmaker - Concepts of Distance
03/10/2025
Karen Kunc : Printmaker - Concepts of Distance
Mokuhanga can be a standalone medium or combined with other artistic practices, offering endless opportunities for experimentation and creative exploration. In this episode of The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast, I speak with printmaker Karen Kunc, who has worked with mokuhanga for many years. She integrates it into her broader printmaking practice, which includes book arts, mixed media, letterpress, Western woodblock, and more. We discuss her early encounters with mokuhanga, her travels to Japan, and her experience printing with Akira Kurosaki. Karen also shares how nature influences her work, the importance of taking creative risks, and her perspective on mokuhanga today. Plus, we talk about her own Constellation Studios and its role in her artistic journey. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Karen Kunc - , Aqua Alta - 26" x 72", woodcut Jocelyn Art Museum - is a fine arts museum located in Omaha, Nebraska, USA. The museum was opened in 1931. More info, . The Agony and The Ecstasy - is a biographical novel by the American author Irving Stone (1903-1989). It goes into detail of the life of Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475-1564). The novel was published in 1961. Awaji Island - located in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. According to the Kojiki(Records of Ancient Matters), it is considered the birthplace of Japan—the first island created by the gods Izanagi and Izanami in Japanese mythology. Historically, Awaji played a vital role as a strategic hub for maritime trade and travel, connecting the Kansai region with Shikoku and Kyushu. During the Edo period, it was governed as part of the Tokushima Domain under the Hachisuka clan. Today, Awaji is renowned for its natural beauty, traditional industries such as Awaji Ningyō Jōruri (puppet theater), and its connection to mainland Japan via the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge—the world’s longest suspension bridge. Kyoto Seika University - located in Kyoto, Japan, is a leading private institution specializing in art and design education. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as painting, sculpture, graphic design, and manga. Known for its rigorous curriculum, Kyoto Seika emphasizes both practical skills and creative expression. With a strong tradition of nurturing talented artists and designers, the university fosters a dynamic environment that encourages innovation and artistic growth. Akira Kurosaki (1937-2019) - was one of the most influential woodblock print artists of the modern era. His work, while seemingly abstract, moved people with its vibrant colour and powerful composition. He was a teacher and invented the “,” which is a great baren to begin your mokuhanga journey with. At the 2021 Mokuhanga Conference in Nara, Japan there was a tribute exhibit of his . Azusa Gallery has a nice selection of his work, . Aurora - 13" x 17" colour woodcut (1982) ukiyo-e - is a multi colour woodblock print generally associated with the Edo Period (1603-1867) of Japan. What began in the 17th Century as prints of only a few colours, evolved into an elaborate system of production and technique into the Meiji Period (1868-1912). With the advent of photography and other forms of printmaking, ukiyo-e as we know it today, ceased production by the late 19th Century. Utagawa Kuniteru (1808-1876) Sumo Wrestler (1861) Peter Max - is an American artist who is associated with the American Pop Art movement of the 1950's and 1960's. He used vibrant colours in his work. Max's art was seen on posters, paintings, even running shoes. More info, . Outer Spectrum - serigraph 8.75" x 12.5" (1978) - is a mokuhanga printmaker, based in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She has been producing mokuhanga for nearly 25 years. Her work refelcts nature, and the power it contains. Mary's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . GAZE - 10" x 14" MI Lab - is a mokuhanga artists residency located in Awatabe Town, Echizen City, Fukui, Japan. More info can be found, . Center For The Science of Human Endeavor - also known in Japanese as 一般社団法人産業人文学研究所 is a program to "research, study, design for a life style in the 21st Century," and is associated with MI Lab. There is a brick and mortar gallery located in Shinbashi, Tōkyō. McClains Woodblock Print Supply Co. - based in Portland, Oregon, McClain's is the go-to supplier of woodblock print tools in the United States. Their website can be found . The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast interview with Daniel Jasa of McClain's can be found . nishinouchi paper - is a Japanese washi which is produced in Nishinouchi Kami no Sato, located in Hitachiomiya City, Ibaraki, Japan. More info can be found, . The Japanese Paper Place- is a Toronto based Japanese paper store servicing the mokuhanga and arts community in Toronto and around the world for many years. Nancy Jacobi of The JPP and her interview with The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast can be found, . Constellation Studios - is the studio of Karen Kunc located in Lincoln, Nebraska, USA. More info can be found, . Penland School of Craft - is a school which welcomes students from all over the world. Located in North Carolina, the school offers eight-week workshops in many different types of mediums. More info, . Anderson Ranch Arts Center - since the 1960s, Anderson Ranch Arts Center, located in Colorado, has been a beacon for the arts in the United States. The Ranch offers master classes, workshops, artist-in-residence programs, and more. For additional information, please click . Virginia Center for the Creative Arts (VCCA) - founded in 1971, is located at Mt. San Angelo in Amherst, Virginia. It provides residency opportunities for artists and writers across various disciplines, offering a supportive environment for creative work. More info can be found, . Wayne Crothers - is an Australian mokuhanga printmaker, curator and artist who lives in Japan. Patricia Olynyk - is a Canadian multimedia artist, photographer, who resides in The United States. Patricia's work explores the way " social systems and institutional structures shape our understanding of our place in the world." More information can be found, . Oculus - digital sculpture Ralph Kiggell (1960-2022) - was one of the most important mokuhanga practitioners. Originally from England, Ralph lived and worked in Thailand. Ralph pushed the boundaries of mokuhanga with extremely large pieces, jigsaw carving, and by using fantastic colour. He also worked with the International Mokuhanga Conference to promote mokuhanga around the world. He will be greatly missed. Ralph's work can be found, . His obituary in The Guardian can be found, . His interview with The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast can be found, . Park Winter Tuula Moilanen - is a Finnish mokuhanga printmaker and painter based in Finland. She lived and studied in Kyōto from 1989 to 2012, where she learned her printmaking at Kyōto Seika University and from printmaker Akira Kurosaki (1937–2019). Her work can be found . Her interview with The Unfinished Print: A Mokuhanga Podcast can be found . Daizuyama - 23cm x 34cm (2009) Kari Laitinen - is a Finnish artist and printmaker based in Finland. His works explore colour and dimension. More information can be found, . He helped write, with Tuula Moilanen, the book Woodblock Printmaking with Oil-based Inks and the Japanese Watercolour Woodcut. It was published in 1999. Dimensions VII - 48cm x 76cm (2017) Venice Printmaking Studio - is a printmaking residency located in Murano, Italy. Malaspina Printmakers - is a printmaking residency located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. MNmore info, . Annu Vertanen - is a Finnish printmaker who has used mokuhanga in her work. Annu is currently a professor at the Academy of Fine Arts, University of the Arts Helsinki. Aspect Guanlan I - 95cm x 65cm © Popular Wheat Productions Opening and closing musical credit - Bruce Springsteen, Atlantic City (1982). From the album Nebraska (Columbia Records) logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. 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Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) - with Dr. Monika Hinkel
02/28/2025
Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) - with Dr. Monika Hinkel
Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900) is considered one of the last great ukiyo-e print designers of Japan. His evocative works helped shape some of the most significant prints from the latter era of ukiyo-e and burgeoning Meiji nishiki-e. I welcome back to the show Dr. Monika Hinkel, Lecturer in the Arts of East Asia at SOAS () at the University of London and an Academic Member of the Japan Research Centre where we explore Kunichika’s life and career. We discuss Kunichika's upbringing in Edo-period Japan (1603–1868), his training at the Utagawa School, and his evolution as an ukiyo-e artist. We discuss Kunichika's creative process, the woodblock production methods of the Edo and Meiji periods, and his favoured themes—kabuki actors, and beautiful women. We also discuss how Kunichika subtly incorporated Japan’s emerging modernity into his designs. Lastly, Dr. Hinkel and I share our personal stories about why we have such an affinity for Toyohara Kunichika and his work. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Ichikawa Sandanji I (1842-1904) as Akiyama Kiimori from New Plays for the Meiji Theatre (1894) Published by Akiyama Buemon ukiyo-e - is a multi colour woodblock print generally associated with the Edo Period (1603-1867) of Japan. What began in the 17th Century as prints of only a few colours, evolved into an elaborate system of production and technique into the Meiji Period (1868-1912). With the advent of photography and other forms of printmaking, ukiyo-e as we know it today, ceased production by the late 19th Century. Utagawa School - was a school of print designers starting with Utagawa Toyoharu (1735-1814). He employed one point perspective (vanishing point) in his print designs, being influenced by Western perspective. The influence of the Utagawa school goes far in Japanese print history and one of its most successful. This schools print designs of kabuki portraits, beautiful women (bijin-ga), and landscapes are excellent. Some famous names attributed to the Utagawa school are Utamaro (1753-1806), Utagawa Kunisada (1786-1865), and Ando Hiroshige (1797-1858). A fine description of this school can be found, at Artelino. Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798-1861) - is considered one of the last “masters” of the ukiyo-e genre of Japanese woodblock printmaking. His designs range from landscapes, samurai and Chinese military heroes, as well as using various formats for his designs such as diptychs and triptychs. The Mirror of Women of Wisdom and Courage - Princess Chujo (1843) Utagawa Kunisada (1786-1865) is widely regarded as one of the most significant woodblock print designers in Japanese history. His diverse portfolio includes prints ranging from landscapes and books to erotica and sumo. Kunisada worked during the vibrant era of nishiki-e alongside notable artists such as Andō Hiroshige (1797-1858), Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849), and the aforementioned Kuniyoshi. This period represents a rich and abundant chapter in Japanese woodblock print history. Beauty in a Mirror - Beauty Applying Perfume On Her Neck (date unknown) Kobayashi Kiyochika (1847-1915) - was a painter and woodblock print designer famous for his war prints on the First Sino-Japanese War (July 25, 1894- April 17, 1895). Kiyochika captured the transitional period in Japanese history as the country underwent rapid modernization and Westernization during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Light House at Kudan On A Rainy Night ca. 1930's Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) - was a mokuhanga designer who is famous for his prints depicting violence and gore. His work is powerful, colourful, and one of the last vibrant moments of the ukiyo-e genre of woodblock prints. More information about Yoshitoshi’s life and his copious amount of work can be found, . Rising moon over Mount Nanping - Cao Cao (1885) nishiki-e (錦絵) - is the Japanese phrase for multi-colour woodblock prints, otherwise known as brocade pictures. Usually attributed to the Meiji period (1868-1912). © Popular Wheat Productions logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Mokuhanga Project Space w/ Keiko Hara & Benjamin Selby
01/31/2025
Mokuhanga Project Space w/ Keiko Hara & Benjamin Selby
When it’s time to practice mokuhanga outside of your comfort zone, there are several places you can go. Seminars and workshops in your hometown are great options, but what if you want to experience something different—a new culture, a new space, a new environment? One such setting is the Mokuhanga Project Space (MPS) in Walla Walla, Washington, United States. This residency allows mokuhanga artists to explore their medium in new and challenging ways. In this episode of The Unfinished Print, I speak with Keiko Hara, mokuhanga artist and co-founder of Mokuhanga Project Space, and Benjamin Selby, mokuhanga artist and Advisory Board Member at MPS. We discuss Keiko Hara’s life and work, her prints, and the development of MPS. We also explore how Mokuhanga Project Space is currently run, the significance of Walla Walla, Washington as a home base, and the importance of residencies in an artist’s practice. Additionally, we examine mokuhanga as a developing art form, comparing its philosophies in the West versus its perception in Japan. And finally, we touch on key concepts such as tradition and innovation in mokuhanga and so much more. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at andrezadorozny@gmail.com Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. For more show notes, please enjoy older episodes of The Unfinished Print. Mokuhanga Project Space - Keiko Hara - Topophilia - Red Shoes (Installation 2017) Benjamin Selby - Untitled (2024) 41.5x31cm © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit - Evening Chimes in Japan logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Jacek Machowski : Printmaker - On The Edge Of Abstraction
12/31/2024
Jacek Machowski : Printmaker - On The Edge Of Abstraction
When it comes to immersing oneself in the understanding of mokuhanga, Jacek Machowski is dedicated to constantly deepening his knowledge and practice of the art form. His exploration of mokuhanga is both inspiring and dynamic, as he continually shares, creates, and evolves his expertise and approach to this wonderful art form. I speak with mokuhanga printmaker, educator, and mokuhanga explorer Jacek Machowski. Jacek’s work is a blend of experimentation, tradition, and excitement. We discuss his journey into mokuhanga, his deep dive into its history, techniques, and philosophies, and how he has dedicated himself to uncovering the intricacies of the art form. Jacek also shares insights into his process of making and testing his own tools, continually pushing their boundaries. Additionally, we explore his own mokuhanga prints, the choices behind his artistic methods, and the workshop he leads. I would like to thank Jacek’s translator , Małgorzata Ptasiński, for her invaluable help with translation. In this episode, you’ll notice that Jacek’s voice is intermittent, with Gosia speaking for most of the discussion. This approach was chosen to ensure smoother listening and a better flow. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at andrezadorozny@gmail.com Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Jacek Machowski - , , \ Sakeda - Senjafuda (2023) 1.97" x 5.90" senjafuda - are votive slips attributed to Buddhism in Japan. This slips of paper were pasted on temples in Japan. The worshippers name was written on the senjafuda in order for people to see that they had visited said shrine. The paper senjafuda were popular in the Edo Period (1603-1868). Tokyo and Kyoto senjafuda had various differences. ex-libris - a decorative label or stamp placed inside a book to indicate its ownership. Usually features the owner’s name, initials, or a personalized design, often with artistic or symbolic elements that reflect the owner's personality, interests, or profession. MI Lab - is a mokuhanga artists residency located in Kawaguchi-ko, near Mount Fuji. More info can be found, . nori - is a type of paste made from starch. It is used when making mokuhanga. You can make nori from any type of material made from starch. For instance, paste can be made with tapioca, rice, corn, even potato. You can purchase nori pretty much anywhere but making it is more environmentally friendly. Laura Boswell has a great recipe, . binder - refers to the substance which holds pigment particles together and adheres them to a surface, such as paper, wood, or canvas, for prints or paints. The binder transforms dry pigments into a usable medium and also makes them more durable. embossing - refers to a technique where the paper is pressed into the carved woodblocks, creating a raised or textured effect on the printed surface. This technique adds a three-dimensional quality to the print by making certain areas of the paper slightly elevated. linocut -A linocut is a relief or block print type, similar to woodblock printing. The artist carves an image into a linoleum block, printing what's left. intaglio printing - is a printing method, also called etching, using metal plates such as zinc, and copper, creating “recessed” areas which are printed with ink on the surface of these "recesses.” More info, . The MET has info, . mica - in mokuhanga, mica (kirazuri) is used to add a shimmering, reflective effect to prints. Mica powder is typically mixed with glue and applied to the surface of the print in areas where a subtle sparkle or luminous texture is desired, often to highlight details such as clothing, water, or the sky. This technique gives the print a luxurious quality and enhances the visual depth. Historically, mica was used in ukiyo-e prints to elevate the status of the work, and it continues to be used by contemporary printmakers for its unique aesthetic appeal. - is a technique in woodblock printing using mica to add a sheen to the print. Mokuhanga artist Marcia Guetschow has written about kirazuri on her website, . David Bull - is a Canadian woodblock printmaker, and educator who lives and works in Japan. His love of mokuhanga has almost singlehandedly promoted the art form around the world. His company, Mokuhankan, has a brick and mortar store in Asakusa, Tōkyō, and online, . Forest In Spring (2008) - a part of the Faculty of Graphics of the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw. His work focuses on everyday life, travel and memory. His works are in intaglio, relief such as mokuhanga, and serigraphy. Augenblick 70 x 100 cm (2023) linocut Tomasz Kawełczyk - is a mokuhanga artist and deputy dean at the Faculty of Fine Arts of the Academy of Fine Arts in Łódź, Poland. He is also a lecturer and organizer of workshops. Tomasz has also worked in mokuhanga as well as holding workshops accompanying the "Road to Edo," held at the National Museum in Warsaw from February 25 - May 7, 2017. His work in mokuhanga has been focused on creating prints by using local tools and materials found in Poland. Dariusz Kaca - is a relief printmaker and professor at the Academy of Fine arts in Łódź, Poland. He works in linocut and mokuhanga. Nocturn I - 40cm x 40cm, linocut - lecturer and researcher at the Academy of Fine Arts in Krakow, Poland. © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit -Ruby My Dear as performed by Roy Hargrove, originally by Thelonius Monk. (1990) RCA logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Nicholas Cladis : An Alchemy of Control - A Discussion on Echizen Washi
10/31/2024
Nicholas Cladis : An Alchemy of Control - A Discussion on Echizen Washi
For those who are regular listeners of The Unfinished Print, you will know that I had the privilege of visiting the city of Echizen in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, where I attended the 2024 Mokuhanga Conference earlier this year. Echizen is renowned for its long history of paper production, supplying paper to the entire country. In this episode of The Unfinished Print, I speak with Nicholas Cladis, Assistant Professor of Instruction at the University of Iowa Center. Having lived and studied paper in Japan and around the world, Nicholas and I discuss the elements of Japanese paper, known as washi, its production process, and specifically how washi is made in Echizen. I ask Nicholas for his opinion on the concerns surrounding the decline of traditional Japanese washi production, and we also explore his own experiences in paper making in the United States and what he hopes to achieve. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Nicholas Cladis - , © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit -Another Land by Dave Holland from the album Another Land (2021) Edition Records logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Mike Lyon : Printmaker - Layers of Meaning
10/22/2024
Mike Lyon : Printmaker - Layers of Meaning
Mokuhanga can be approached in many ways. For some, a hands-on approach is the most appealing, as it places full responsibility on the artist to carefully craft each step—designing, carving by hand, and printing—to achieve the best possible result. However, other mokuhanga artists take a more experimental route, where the possibilities are limitless, and innovation leads to unique outcomes. On this episode of The Unfinished Print, I speak with printmaker Mike Lyon, who has been creating mokuhanga for nearly 30 years. We delve into his philosophy on mokuhanga, his innovative use of a CNC machine in printmaking, and his inventive spirit. We also explore his own mokuhanga prints and the Lyon Collection of Japanese woodblock prints. This interview was conducted while Mike was at the Mokuhanga Project Space in Walla Walla, Washington, and he reflects on his real time experiences during the interview. One other note; there is reference to an accident Mike had as a young man regarding his fingers. Listeners be warned. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Mike Lyon - Shotokan Karate - is a traditional Japanese martial art that emphasizes powerful, linear movements, strong stances, and precise techniques. Developed by Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957) in the early 20th century, Shotokan blends self-defense, physical fitness, and mental discipline. It is characterized by its deep stances, focus on kata (pre-arranged forms), kihon (basic techniques), and kumite (sparring). Practitioners strive for mastery of body and mind, aiming to improve both physical strength and inner calm through rigorous practice. Shotokan is one of the most widely practiced karate styles worldwide. Zen Buddhism - is a school of Mahāyāna Buddhism that emphasizes direct experience, meditation (zazen), and mindfulness as paths to enlightenment. Originating in China as Chan Buddhism and later flourishing in Japan, Zen focuses on achieving insight into the nature of existence through meditation rather than reliance on scriptures or ritual. Central to Zen practice is the concept of "no-mind" (mushin), which seeks to quiet the mind and transcend dualistic thinking. Through sitting meditation, koans (paradoxical questions), and the guidance of a teacher, Zen practitioners aim to awaken to their true nature and the interconnectedness of all things. Hiroki Morinoue - is a mokuhanga printmaker and artist living in Holualoa, Big Island, Hawai’i. He is a co-founding member of the Holualoa Foundation For Arts & Culture, the establishment of the and . Hiroki's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Kitchen Fosit (2012) Gotō Hidehiko (b.1953) - is a mokuhanga printmaker and tool maker based in Japan. He makes and teaches seminars about the construction of the mokuhanga tool, the baren. From The Window (2017) 15" x 12" Anderson Ranch Arts Center - since the 1960s, Anderson Ranch Arts Center, located in Colorado, has been a beacon for the arts in the United States. The Ranch offers master classes, workshops, artist-in-residence programs, and more. For additional information, please click . registration - there are several registration methods in mokuhanga. The traditional method is called the kentō registration, where you carve two notches, straight another an "L." There is also a "floating kentō," which is where the notches are cut in a piece of "L" shaped wood and not on the wood where you are cutting your image, hence "floating." Lastly, there are removable "pins," such as ones made by . The Fisherman and His Wife (1996) 15" x 10" International Mokuhanga Conference - is a bi-yearly conference dedicated to mokuhanga which started in 2011 by the International Mokuhanga Association. Each conference is themed. The latest conference was in 2021, delayed a year because of the pandemic. More information can be found, . Prussian Blue - is a dark blue pigment, which has been used by painters, and mokuhanga printmakers. The pigment has been used in Europe since the 18th Century, and in Japan since around 1820, having been imported by Europeans into Japan. More information about Prussian Blue can be found in my interview with Professor Henry Smith, . reduction printmaking - is a process in printmaking where the printmaker cuts away on a piece of wood, or linoleum. After every carving, the printmaker makes an impression with pigments, beginning with lighter colours, gradually using darker colours. William H. Mays has a fine description of reduction on his website, . CNC Machine - A CNC (Computer Numerical Control) router is a machine used to cut, carve, or engrave materials like wood, plastic, metal, and foam with high precision, guided by a computer program. The router is controlled by pre-programmed software that dictates the movement of the cutting tool along multiple axes (typically three to five), allowing for complex shapes and designs to be created with great accuracy. CNC routers are commonly used in manufacturing, woodworking, sign-making, and prototyping because they can produce detailed and repetitive cuts that would be difficult to achieve by hand. Friends of Baren Forum - is a Facebook group dedicated to those interested in mokuhanga and woodblock printing in general. it can be found, . David Bull - is a Canadian woodblock printmaker, and educator who lives and works in Japan. His love of mokuhanga has almost singlehandedly promoted the art form around the world. His company, Mokuhankan, has a brick and mortar store in Asakusa, Tōkyō, and online, . River In Spring (2009) shihan - is a title in Japanese martial arts, often translated as "master instructor." It is an honorific title given to highly skilled and experienced practitioners who have demonstrated knowledge, expertise, and commitment to a particular martial art over many years. A shihan is not only a technical expert but also a role model and leader, responsible for preserving and passing on the traditions and philosophies of the martial art to future generations. The title is typically granted in arts such as karate, aikido, judo, and kendo, and it is often reserved for senior instructors with a rank of 5th dan or higher. aizuri-e - (藍摺絵) are woodblock prints made entirely with shades of blue. This style gained popularity during the Edo Period. yakusha-e - (役者絵) is the Japanese term for actor prints in mokuhanga. bijin-ga - (美人画) is the Japanese term for beautiful women in mokuhanga. Ezoshi - is a mokuhanga focused art gallery and store located in Kyoto, Japan. It was established in 1978. More info, . Tōshūsai Sharaku (dates unknown) - was a Japanese ukiyo-e printmaker active during the late Edo period, primarily from 1794 to 1795. He is known for his portraits of kabuki actors, capturing their dramatic expressions and movements with remarkable realism and emotional depth. Sharaku emphasized individuality and personality in his subjects, using bold colors and strong contrasts to create a distinct style. Despite his brief career, lasting only about ten months, his innovative approach had a lasting impact on the ukiyo-e tradition, making him one of the most significant printmakers of the Edo period. The true identity of Sharaku and the reasons for his sudden disappearance from the art scene are still unknown. Otani Oniji III as Edobei (1794) 14 15/16" × 9 7/8" ōkubi-e (大首絵) - are woodblock prints of close-up human heads, which came into prominence in the late 19th Century. For me, the best mokuhanga designer of okubi-e is Toyohara Kunichika (1835-1900). His okubi-e of kabuki actors is unparalleled, showing the actors in various positions with intricate backgrounds and poses. Kamigata - is a region of Japan which refers to the area encompassing the cities of Kyoto and Osaka, located in the Kansai region. During the Edo period (1603–1868), Kamigata became a significant cultural and artistic center, known for its contributions to theater, literature, and the arts, particularly ukiyo-e mokuhanga. The term "Kamigata," meaning "upper region," reflects its geographical position relative to Edo (modern Tōkyō), which was considered the "lower region." Photoshop - is a powerful graphics editing software developed by Adobe Systems, widely used for image manipulation, photo editing, and digital art creation. It offers a variety of tools and features for tasks such as retouching images, creating graphics, applying effects, and designing layouts, making it an essential tool for photographers, graphic designers, and artists. Benjamin Selby - is an artist who works in mokuhanga, as well as serigraphy and installations. More information about Benjamin’s work can be found, . His interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Crushed (2024) Fudezaishiki - Hand Colored With Brush Mokuhanga 9" x 12" Mokuhanga Project Space - is a mokuhanga residency located in Walla Walla, Washington, USA. It was established in 2016 and is led by printmaker Keiko Hara. More info can be found, . coding - also known as programming, is the process of writing instructions for computers using programming languages. These instructions, or code, enable computers to perform specific tasks, solve problems, or automate processes. Coding involves creating algorithms, which are step-by-step procedures for carrying out a task, and translating these algorithms into a language that a computer can understand, such as Python, Java, C++, or JavaScript. Coding is essential in developing software applications, websites, and systems that power various technologies in everyday life, from mobile apps to complex databases and artificial intelligence systems. HP-25 - is a scientific calculator introduced by Hewlett-Packard in 1975. It is notable for being one of the first pocket-sized programmable calculators, featuring a unique Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) input system, which allows users to enter calculations in a more efficient manner than traditional algebraic notation. The HP-25 is equipped with a 49-step program memory, enabling users to create and store complex calculations. It has a 2-line display for showing both the program and the results, and it can perform a variety of functions, including trigonometric, logarithmic, and statistical calculations. The HP-25 is recognized for its durability, design, and the pioneering role it played in the evolution of personal computing and calculators. subroutine - also known as a function, method, or procedure, is a set of instructions designed to perform a specific task within a larger program. Subroutines allow programmers to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable pieces, promoting code reusability and organization. When a subroutine is called, the program temporarily transfers control to that subroutine, executes its instructions, and then returns control to the main program or calling code, often providing a result or output. This modular approach makes it easier to debug, maintain, and understand code, as well as to share functionality across different parts of a program or between different programs. Echizen - is a region in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, known for its long history of papermaking. The area is home to many paper artisans. One notable figure is Iwano Ichibei. He is a Living National Treasure in papermaking and the ninth generation of his family still making paper today. More information can be found here.in , and here in . baren - is a mokuhanga tool that typically consists of a round, flat disk with a bamboo base, covered with a layer of cord or cloth, often wrapped in a spiral pattern made from various materials such as cotton or hemp. Additionally, there are baren made from ball bearings and other materials, including plastic and metal. Linda in Black (2019) 41" x 29.5" - for more information on how this print was made you can find that on Mike Lyon's website, . rectangular spirals - are a pattern which Mike Lyon uses a lot in his mokuhanga. Here is a posting on Mike's website in which Mike discusses his ideas on these spirals and how he uses them through coding. It can be found, . Guerra & Paint Pigment Corp. - is a brick and mortar store located in Brooklyn, New York that sells artists pigments. More info, . CMYK colour model - stands for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Key which are the colours used in the printing process of whichever work you are making. More info, . rasters - or raster graphics, are a type of digital image composed of a grid of individual pixels, each containing colour information. This pixel-based format is commonly used in digital photography, web graphics, and image editing, with resolution defined by the number of pixels in each dimension (width x height) and measured in dots per inch (DPI) or pixels per inch (PPI). While raster images can capture detailed and complex visuals, such as photographs, they can lose quality and become pixelated when enlarged, as the individual pixels become more visible. Common raster file formats include JPEG, PNG, GIF, and BMP. Unlike vector graphics, which use mathematical equations to represent images and can be scaled infinitely without loss of quality, rasters are less suitable for images requiring resizing or scaling. Shotbot code - typically refers to programming or scripting used to automate tasks in photography, particularly in photo booths or photography studios. It may involve controlling camera settings, managing image capture, and organizing files, allowing photographers to streamline their workflows and enhance productivity. Often associated with the ShotBot app, this code enables remote triggering of cameras, capturing images at set intervals, and integrating with other software for efficient image management. By utilizing Shotbot code, photographers can achieve consistent results and improve the overall efficiency of their photography projects. Madz - Portrait of the artist Madeline Cass. 31"x32" for more information regarding the process of how this print was made can be found on Mike Lyon's website, . Post Digital Printmaking - is printmaking using Computer Numeric Control (CNC) devices, including laser cutters and CNC routers, that are used for matrix production in lithography, intaglio, and relief printing. closed-loop controller -is a type of control system that continuously monitors and adjusts its output based on feedback from the system it is controlling. In this system, the controller receives information about the current state or output and compares it to a desired setpoint or target value. This feedback allows the controller to make real-time adjustments to the input or control signal to minimize the difference between the actual output and the desired output, enhancing accuracy and stability. Closed-loop controllers are commonly used in applications such as industrial automation, robotics, temperature control, and motor speed regulation, and they are contrasted with open-loop controllers, which do not utilize feedback and rely solely on predefined input commands. The feedback mechanism in closed-loop systems improves performance, allowing for better handling of disturbances and changes in system dynamics. MDF - or Medium-Density Fiberboard, is an engineered wood product made from wood fibres, wax, and resin that are compressed under high pressure and temperature. It is known for its smooth surface, uniform density, and versatility, making it a popular choice for furniture, cabinetry, moldings, and decorative applications. MDF can be easily cut, shaped, and painted, allowing for intricate designs and finishes. Unlike solid wood, MDF does not have knots or grain patterns, providing a consistent appearance. It is often used as a cost-effective alternative to solid wood and plywood, although it can be more susceptible to moisture damage and may require sealing for certain applications. Foundry Vineyards - based in Walla Walla, Washington is a vineyard and art space. It has been hosting artists from all types of media such as painting and printmaking since 2010. It has exhibited The Mokuhanga Project Space, printmaker Mike Lyon, and the International Mokuhanga Print Exhibit. More info about this space and the good it does for the art community at large can be found, . The Wichita Art Museum - located in Wichita, Kansas, is the largest art museum in the state. Established in 1935, it features a diverse collection of American art, with a particular focus on works from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum's permanent collection includes paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, highlighting notable artists such as Georgia O'Keeffe, Edward Hopper, and John Steuart Curry. In addition to its collections, the museum offers rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and community events that engage the public and promote an appreciation for the visual arts. The museum's architecture, designed by the renowned architect Edward Durrell Stone. More info can be found, . The International Block Print Renaissance: Then & Now - was a woodblock exhibition held at the Wichita Art Museum from February 26 - August 7, 2022. It was an exhibition which exhibited prints from around the world as well as printmakers from Wichita, Kansas, USA. It described various print making techniques from Japan, Western and Eastern Europe, as well as the United States. Secret Garden [Clover] (2017) 36" x 36", a video on how Mike Lyon printed this particular print can be found on YouTube, . © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit -There Is No Greater Love by Chet Baker (1928-1988) from the album City Lights (2024) UMG Records. logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. 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Malene Wagner : Tiger Tanuki - It's As Much To Do With History As It Has To Do With Art
09/30/2024
Malene Wagner : Tiger Tanuki - It's As Much To Do With History As It Has To Do With Art
When developing a business centered around Japanese prints, there are many factors to consider: the audience, the history, and how you want to be perceived by the public. The appeal of the Japanese aesthetic, along with your own personal aesthetic and brand identity, can also be just as important to your business. On this episode of The Unfinished Print, I speak with Malene Wagner, a gallerist, curator, writer, and art historian whose business operates under the name Tiger Tanuki. Malene shares her passion for collecting and selling Japanese prints, and we explore the European perspective on Japanese prints and printmaking. We also dive into Japanese aesthetics and how they are interpreted through a Western lens. Additionally, Malene discusses how these aesthetics influence her brand, Tiger Tanuki, the role history plays in shaping her business, and her upcoming book. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Malene Wagner & Tiger Tanuki - , ukiyo-e - is a multi colour woodblock print generally associated with the Edo Period (1603-1867) of Japan. What began in the 17th Century as prints of only a few colours, evolved into an elaborate system of production and technique into the Meiji Period (1868-1912). With the advent of photography and other forms of printmaking, ukiyo-e as we know it today, ceased production by the late 19th Century. Uniqlo - a Japanese clothing brand known for its affordable, minimalist, and high-quality everyday wear. It focuses on functional designs, using innovative fabrics like Heattech for warmth and AIRism for breathability. Uniqlo is popular worldwide for offering essential wardrobe staples and often collaborates with well-known designers and artists to create unique collections. Clear Day With A Southern Breeze (1831) is a print usually known as "Red Fuji." From the series Thirty Six Views of Mt. Fuji this print was actually pink, red was used in later impressions by publisher Nishimuraya Yohachi. The Great Wave off Kanagawa - is a woodblock print designed by Katsushika Hokusai in 1831. It is very famous. Yayoi Kusama - is a pioneering Japanese artist known for her immersive installations and polka dot motifs that explore themes of infinity, identity, and mental health. Born in 1929 in Matsumoto, Japan, Kusama began her artistic journey through painting and avant-garde practices, eventually moving to New York in the late 1950s, where she became a key figure in the pop art and feminist movements. Her works, range from large-scale installations like the "Infinity Mirror Rooms" to her vibrant sculptures and paintings. Kusama’s art is a deeply personal expression of her own experiences with mental illness, transforming her obsessions into stunning visual experiences that resonate globally. Today, she is celebrated as one of the most influential contemporary artists, with exhibitions and installations that captivate audiences worldwide. From "Life Is The Heart of A Rainbow", Installation (2017) MANGA - was an exhibition from May 23 - August 26, 2019 held at the British Museum in London, England. shin hanga - is a style of Japanese woodblock printmaking that emerged in the early 20th century, marking the end of the nishiki-e period. Originating around 1915 under the direction of Watanabe Shōzaburō (1885-1962), the art form responded to the foreign demand for "traditional" Japanese imagery. Shin hanga artists focused on motifs like castles, bridges, famous landscapes, and bamboo forests. The style was initiated when Watanabe discovered Austrian artist Fritz Capelari (1884-1950) and commissioned him to design prints for Watanabe's budding printing house. This collaboration led to the evolution of shin hanga into a distinctive new style of Japanese woodblock printing. The shin hanga movement thrived until its inevitable decline after the Second World War (1939-1945). sōsaku-hanga - or creative prints, is a style of printmaking which is predominantly, although not exclusively, prints made by one person. It started in the early twentieth century in Japan, in the same period as the shin-hanga movement. The artist designs, carves, and prints their own works. The designs, especially in the early days, may seem rudimentary but the creation of self-made prints was a breakthrough for printmakers moving away from where only a select group of carvers, printers and publishers created woodblock prints. Tomoo Inagaki (1902-1980) - introduced to mokuhanga by Onchi Kōshirō and Un'cihi Hiratsuka in 1923. Beginning in 1924, Inagaki published his first prints in magazines such as Shi to hanga (issue 13), Hanga (issues 6, 9/10, 11, 14), and Kitsutsuki, and exhibited with the Nihon Sôsaku-Hanga Kyôkai (Japan Creative Print Association). He became a member of the Nihon Hanga Kyôkai (Japan Print Association) in 1932 and participated in various post-war international competitions, including the Paris, Tokyo, and Lugano biennales. His cat prints have been highly collectible. More info can be found at Viewing Japanese Prints, . The Rival Cats - 18" x 24" (1960's - 1970's) Oliver Statler (1915-2002) - was an American author and scholar and collector of mokuhanga. He had been a soldier in World War 2, having been stationed in Japan. After his time in the war Statler moved back to Japan where he wrote about Japanese prints. His interests were of many facets of Japanese culture such as accommodation, and the 88 Temple Pilgrimage of Shikoku. Oliver Statler, in my opinion, wrote one of the most important books on the sōsaku-hanga movement, “Modern Japanese Prints: An Art Reborn.” Frances Blakemore (1906-1997) - was an American-born artist, writer, philanthropist and curator of modern Japanese mokuhanga. She lived in Japan for over fifty years and helped to support the burgeoning sōsaku hanga print movement of the 1950s. Blakemore worked in mokuhanga (collaborating with Watanabe Shōzaburō) and making self-printed and carved prints. She also worked in oils. Japanese Bath (1937) - 11 7/8" x 9 5/8 " Yoshitomo Nara - is a renowned Japanese contemporary artist and is celebrated for his distinctive paintings and sculptures featuring figures with large heads and expressive eyes, often exploring themes of innocence, rebellion, and solitude. Change The History (2007) acrylic on wood 74-7/16" × 55-1/2" × 3-1/8" Mingei - is a Japanese term that translates to "folk craft" or "people's art." It refers to a movement that emerged in the early 20th century, emphasizing the value and beauty of traditional, handmade crafts created by anonymous artisans. Mingei focuses on everyday objects, such as pottery, textiles, furniture, and utensils, that reflect the culture and daily life of the people who made them. Lawrin Smith - is the author of the book "The Prints of Yoshitoshi: A Complete Illustrated Catalog" (2009). This comprehensive catalog focuses on the works of Tsukioka Yoshitoshi. The book provides detailed descriptions and illustrations of Yoshitoshi's prints, showcasing his significant contributions to the ukiyo-e genre and his influence on modern printmaking. Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic philosophy that celebrates the beauty of imperfection, transience, and the natural cycle of life. It combines two concepts: "wabi," which refers to rustic simplicity and tranquility found in nature, and "sabi,"which denotes the beauty that comes with age and wear. Wabi-sabi values simplicity, asymmetry, and the unique characteristics of objects and experiences, encouraging appreciation for the impermanent and humble aspects of life. This philosophy is reflected in various forms of art, architecture, and design, emphasizing natural materials and handcrafted items, and fostering mindfulness and acceptance of the imperfections that make life beautiful. A-yo - is a renowned Japanese artist associated with the Gutai Art Association, an avant-garde group that emerged in post-war Japan. Known for his vibrant colors and distinctive style, Ay-O's work often incorporates elements of nature, light, and movement, reflecting themes of playfulness and spontaneity. He engages with materials in innovative ways and has explored performance art as part of his creative expression. With extensive exhibitions both in Japan and internationally, Ay-O has made significant contributions to contemporary art, emphasizing the joy of creation and the aesthetic experience. Marcel Duchamp (1887–1968) was a French-American artist and a key figure in modern art, known for his significant influence on the Dada movement and conceptual art. He initially trained as a painter but became renowned for challenging traditional notions of art through his controversial works, such as "Fountain"(1917), a readymade sculpture of a urinal that questioned the definition of art and the role of the artist. Duchamp's other notable pieces, including "The Large Glass" (1915–1923) and "Bicycle Wheel" (1913), explored themes of chance and perception. His innovative ideas about art as a conceptual experience rather than a purely visual one continue to resonate, solidifying his status as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Fountain (1917) replica (1964) Naoko Matsubara - is a contemporary Japanese printmaker known for her expertise in mokuhanga. Born in Osaka, she studied at Kyoto Seika University, where she specialized in printmaking and mastered the techniques of this ancient art form. Matsubara's work often blends traditional methods with contemporary themes, exploring the relationship between nature, culture, and identity. Her prints are characterized by intricate details, vibrant colors, and a deep appreciation for the materials and techniques involved in woodblock printing. She teaches and promotes mokuhanga both in Japan and abroad, exhibiting her work in galleries and museums worldwide and receiving numerous awards for her contributions to the field. Naoko's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Gihachiro Okuyama (1907-1981) - was a prominent Japanese printmaker and painter associated with the sōsaku hanga (creative prints) movement. Born in Tokyo, he studied traditional Japanese painting and was influenced by Western art styles, leading to innovative woodblock prints characterized by bold colors and dynamic compositions that blend traditional aesthetics with modern elements. Throughout his career, Okuyama exhibited extensively in Japan and internationally, contributing significantly to contemporary printmaking while also playing a vital role in art education by sharing his expertise with future generations. His work reflects a deep engagement with the cultural exchanges between East and West during the post-war period. Moonscape - 10" x 21" Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798-1861) - is considered one of the last “masters” of the ukiyo-e genre of Japanese woodblock printmaking. His designs range from landscapes, samurai and Chinese military heroes, as well as using various formats for his designs such as diptychs and triptychs. Prince Rokuson Tsunemoto from Suikoden of Japanese Heroes (1843) 10" x 7" Utagawa Kunisada III (1848–1920) - was a ukiyo-e print designer from the Utagawa school of mokuhanga. Kunisada III's print designs were designed during the transformation of the Edo Period (1603-1868) into the Meiji Period (1868-1912) of Japanese history, where his prints showed the technological, architectural and historical changes in Japan's history. Kabuki Plays - Narukami and Princess Toki (ca. 1890's) triptych Saitō Kiyoshi (1907-1997) - was a Japanese woodblock printmaker and artist who worked in the sōsaku hanga style of mokuhanga. HIs fame outside of Japan was fairly comprehensive with his peak fame being in the 1950’s and 1960’s. For a comprehensive book on his life and times, Saitō Kiyoshi: Graphic Awakening published by The John & Mable Ringling Museum is an excellent source. Can be found, . Lecture by Dr. Paget about Saitō can be found, . My interview with Professor Paget can be found, . Dog, Daschund 2 10" x 15" Edvard Munch (1863-1944) - was a Norweigan artist, who initially was a painter, but also ventured into printmaking making 850 images. His print medium was etching, lithography, and woodcut. More information can be found , at Christie’s. Anxiety (1894) Pieter Cornelius Mondrian (1872-1944) - a Dutch artist who’s work helped found De Stijl in 1917, a group of Dutch painters who helped codify Mondrian’s abstraction and industrial design. Mondrian has a wide spectrum of works and styles created throughout his career. More information can be found, from the Guggenheim. Mill in Sunlight (1908). Credit: Kunstmuseum Den Haag, The Hague, The Netherlands © 2021 Mondrian/Holtzman Trust Shunga - meaning "spring pictures," is a genre of Japanese erotic art that flourished during the Edo period (1603–1868), characterized by woodblock prints, paintings, and illustrated books depicting explicit sexual scenes often combined with humor, romance, and social commentary. Notable for its vibrant colors and intricate details, shunga explores themes of intimacy and sexuality, serving both as entertainment and education in a culture where such topics were often taboo. The genre reflects societal attitudes toward love and relationships and has a rich history despite facing censorship at various times. Today, shunga is recognized as a significant part of Japanese art history, appreciated for its aesthetic qualities and cultural context. Paul Binnie - Candlelight (1994) kappazuri print 24" x 18" Tosa Prefecture - historically known as Tosa Province, is located in the southern part of Shikoku, Japan, and corresponds to present-day Kochi Prefecture. Renowned for its natural beauty, including mountains, rivers, and coastal landscapes, Tosa has a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional crafts like Tosa washi (handmade paper) and Tosa pottery. The region is famous for its vibrant festivals, such as the Yosakoi Festival, which features lively dance performances, and is known for its agricultural products, particularly citrus fruits like yuzu and sudachi, along with seafood. Kochi City, the capital of Kochi Prefecture, serves as the cultural and economic center, showcasing local cuisine, historical sites, and museums. Tosa's unique blend of natural scenery, traditional crafts, and cultural events contributes to its significance within Japan. © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit - I Am Pentagon by the band Make Up from their album Save Yourself (1999) released by K Records. logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Mariko Jesse : Printmaker - You Have To Make The Work
09/17/2024
Mariko Jesse : Printmaker - You Have To Make The Work
The journey of an artist is a winding one. You make the decision to start, not knowing where it will take you. Over time, if you're fortunate, you build a career from your work while gaining the freedom to explore new forms of expression, with each project becoming an important and affirming part of that journey. In this episode of The Unfinished Print, I speak with Mariko Jesse, a professional illustrator who has integrated mokuhanga into her artistic practice. Mariko draws inspiration from her life experiences, sharing insights on her family and travels. We discuss how living in San Francisco, Hong Kong, and Japan has shaped her outlook and creative process. Mariko also reflects on her involvement with MI Lab, now based in Echizen, Japan, as well travelling to the International Mokuhanga Conference in April 2024. Finally, we explore Mariko's collaborations with The Mokuhanga Sisters and wood+paper+box, and how these partnerships shape her own artistic practice. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Mariko Jesse - , Nagasawa Art Park (MI Lab) Awaji City - Nagasawa Art Park was an artist-in-residence program located in Awaji City, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan. It was open for 12 years before evolving into MI Lab in 2012. More info, . Yoonmi Nam - is a contemporary mokuhanga printmaker, lithographer, sculptor, and teacher, based in Lawrence, Kansas. Her work can be found, . Her interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . From Yoonmi Nam's exhibition Among Other Things, as seen at The University at Buffalo Art Gallery, Buffalo, NY (2024) photo by me. Katie Baldwin - is a contemporary mokuhanga printmaker, illustrator, book maker, and artist based in Huntsville, Alabama. Her work can be found, . Her interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Looking For Different Places to Call Home, from the series Family Tree (2004) 18"x14" mokuhanga and letterpress Ralph Kiggell (1960-2022) - was one of the most important mokuhanga practitioners. Originally from England, Ralph lived and worked in Thailand. Ralph pushed the boundaries of mokuhanga with extremely large pieces, jigsaw carving, and by using fantastic colour. He also worked with the International Mokuhanga Conference to promote mokuhanga around the world. He will be greatly missed. Ralph's work can be found, . His obituary in The Guardian can be found, . His interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Leaf Change linocut -A linocut is a relief or block print type, similar to woodblock printing. The artist carves an image into a linoleum block, printing what's left. Central Saint Martins - is a renowned art and design college in London, formed in 1989 through the merger of St Martin’s School of Art and the Central School of Art and Crafts, both known for their innovative, hands-on teaching methods. It later integrated the Drama Centre London and the Byam Shaw School of Art. Central Saint Martins continues its tradition of radical art and design education while adapting to modern shifts in its disciplines and teaching approaches. intaglio printing - is a printing method, also called etching, using metal plates such as zinc, and copper, creating “recessed” areas which are printed with ink on the surface of these "recesses.” More info, . The MET has info, . Into The Garden (mokuhanga printed book) cat + jug (etching) A4 paper size - is a size of paper from the ISO 216 standard, with the dimensions of 210x297 mm. Summer Blooms (2021) MI Lab - is a mokuhanga residency located in Echizen, Fukui, Japan. More info can be found, . - are a mokuhanga collective consisting of Yoonmi Nam, Mariko Jesse, Lucy May Schofield, Melissa Schulenberg, Kate MacDonagh, Katie Baldwin, Mia-O, Patty Hudak, and Natasha Norman. Masaban - was the exhibition held at the Udatsu Paper Museum in Echizen, Fukui, Japan in April, 2024. More info can be found, . Udatsu Paper & Craft Museum - is a museum dedicated to washi and its history. More information can be found, . gomazuri - is a mokuhanga technique where slight pressure is used with pigments to make a “spotty” image, what look like sesame seeds. It can add depth to your prints. Paul Binnie - Travels with the Master: New York Night T/P 11 3/8" by 8 1/8" Awaji Island - located in the Seto Inland Sea of Japan, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is considered the birthplace of Japan in the *Kojiki* (Records of Ancient Matters), as the first island created by the gods Izanagi and Izanami in Japanese mythology. Historically, Awaji was a strategic point for maritime trade and travel, linking the Kansai region with Shikoku and Kyushu. During the Edo period, it was part of Tokushima Domain under the rule of the Hachisuka clan. Today, Awaji is known for its natural beauty, traditional industries like Awaji Ningyo Joruri (puppet theater), and as the site of the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge, connecting it to mainland Japan. 弁 - is the Chinese character for ben, "dialect." Kansai (関西地方) - is a region located on the main island of Honshu, Japan, which encompasses the Prefectures of Nara, Kyoto, Wakayama, Osaka, Hyōgo, Shiga and Mie. It has the most UNESCO world heritage sites in Japan. For tourist information about Kansai, see . sizing paper - at times mokuhanga printmakers will size their paper. Size is made from water, animal glue (rabbit, horse), and alum. What the size does is keep the pigments the artist uses from “bleeding” into the outer edges of the paper. There are many recipes of size, is one that artist Walter J. Phillips used. Gotō Hidehiko - is a mokuhanga printmaker and baren maker based in Tōkyō, Japan. You can order baren from him, . Terry McKenna - is a mokuhanga printmaker and teacher residing in Karuizawa, Japan. He received guidance in the art form from Richard Steiner, a prominent mokuhanga printmaker based in Kyoto. Terry established the Karuizawa Mokuhanga School, a renowned residency dedicated to mokuhanga education, located in Karuizawa, Japan. For further details about Terry and his school, . Additionally, you can listen to Terry's interview with The Unfinished Print, and Richard Steiner's interview . The Western Sky (22.4"x9") 2022 Lucy May Schofield - is a printmaker, photographer, and scroll maker (kakemono, 掛物) and is based in England. More information cane found on Lucy's website, and . Lucy's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . The Last Light series (cyanotype) 2016 Tiffany & Co. - is a luxury jewelry and specialty retailer founded in 1837 in New York City. Known for its iconic blue boxes and high-quality craftsmanship, Tiffany's specializes in fine jewelry, particularly diamond engagement rings, as well as silver, watches, and luxury accessories. Over the years, it has become a symbol of elegance, style, and timeless sophistication. The brand is also known for its collaborations with renowned designers and its presence in popular culture. - is a collaborative art group made up of Katie Baldwin, Mariko Jesse, and Yoonmi Nam. It is based on their experiences at Nagasawa Art Park, the precursor of MI Lab. mica - in mokuhanga, mica (kirazuri) is used to add a shimmering, reflective effect to prints. Mica powder is typically mixed with glue and applied to the surface of the print in areas where a subtle sparkle or luminous texture is desired, often to highlight details such as clothing, water, or the sky. This technique gives the print a luxurious quality and enhances the visual depth. Historically, mica was used in ukiyo-e prints to elevate the status of the work, and it continues to be used by contemporary printmakers for its unique aesthetic appeal. © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit - sounds of the Sumida River 2024 logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Dr. Monika Hinkel PhD : The Yoshida Family - Continuity and Change
08/30/2024
Dr. Monika Hinkel PhD : The Yoshida Family - Continuity and Change
When embarking on your mokuhanga journey, whether through making or collecting, one name stands out above the rest: (pause) Yoshida. The Yoshida family of artists have helped create some of the most important and exciting mokuhanga prints of the last 100 years. Their designs, techniques, and marketing transformed the perception of prints in Japan and around the world. I speak with Dr. Monika Hinkel, Lecturer in the Arts of East Asia at SOAS () at the University of London and an Academic Member of the Japan Research Centre. Dr. Hinkel is also the curator of the current exhibtion (at the time of recording) about the Yoshida family of artists, titled Yoshida: Three Generations of Printmaking, being held at the Dulwich Picture Gallery in London, England. Dr. Hinkel joins me to discuss the Yoshida family, from Hiroshi to Ayomi, the exhibition at the Dulwich Picture Gallery—the first of its kind in the United Kingdom—the Yoshida family's history, and their impact on the global art community. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Dulwich Picture Gallery - located in London, England the Dulwich Picture Gallery is the worlds first public "purpose-built" public art gallery founded in 1811. Robert Rauschenberg (1925–2008) - was an American artist known for his innovative and boundary-defying work that blurred the lines between painting, sculpture, and everyday life. Emerging in the 1950s, Rauschenberg challenged the conventions of traditional art with his "Combines," a series of works that incorporated found objects, photographs, and non-traditional materials into paintings, creating dynamic, multi-dimensional pieces. Characterized by a spirit of experimentation and a desire to break down the distinctions between art and the real world, Rauschenberg played a crucial role in the transition from Abstract Expressionism to Pop Art. Charlene (1954) mixed media Pop Art - was an art movement from the 1950s and 1960s that incorporated imagery from popular culture, such as advertising, comic books, and consumer goods. It challenged traditional art by blurring the lines between high art and everyday life. Key figures like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein used bold colors and familiar icons to both celebrate and critique consumer culture, making Pop Art one of the most influential movements in modern art. Yoshida: Three Generations of Japanese Printmakers - is the current exhibition at the Dulwich Picture Gallery from June 19, 2024 - November 3, 2024. Yoshida Hiroshi (1876-1950) - a watercolorist, oil painter, and woodblock printmaker. Is associated with the resurgence of the woodblock print in Japan, and in the West. It was his early relationship with Watanabe Shōzaburō, having his first seven prints printed by the Shōzaburō atelier. This experience made Hiroshi believe that he could hire his own carvers and printers and produce woodblock prints, which he did in 1925. Kumoi Cherry Tree 23" x 29 1/8 " (1926) Yoshida Fujio (1887-1997) - the wife of Hiroshi Yoshida and the mother of Tōshi Yoshida (1911-1995) and Hodaka Yoshida. Fujio was so much more than a mother and wife. She had a long and storied career as a painter and printmaker. Fujio’s work used her travels and personal experiences to make her work. Subjects such as Japan during The Pacific War, abstraction, portraits, landscapes, still life, and nature were some of her themes. Her painting mediums were watercolour and oil. Her print work was designed by her and carved by Fujio. Flower - B (1954) 15 3/4" x 10 5/8" Yoshida Tōshi (1911-1995) - was the second child of Hiroshi Yoshida and Fujio Yoshida, although the first to survive childhood. Beginning with oil paintings and then apprenticing under his father with woodblock cutting. By 1940 Tōshi started to make his mokuhanga. After his father's death in 1950, Tōshi began to experiment with abstract works and travel to the United States. Later travels to Africa evolved his prints, inspiring Tōshi with the world he experienced as his work focused on animals and nature. American Girl A (1954) 15 7/8" x 11 1/8" Yoshida Chizuko (1924-2017) - was the wife of painter and printmaker Hodaka Yoshida. Beginning as an abstract painter, Chizuko, after a meeting with sōsaku hanga printmaker Onchi Kōshirō (1891-1955), Chizuko became interested in printmaking. Chizuko enjoyed the abstraction of art, and this was her central theme of expression. Like all Yoshida artists, travel greatly inspired Chizuko’s work. She incorporated the colours and flavours of the world into her prints. Jazz (1953) 15 3/4" x 11" Yoshida Hodaka (1926-1995) - was the second son of woodblock printmaker and designer Hiroshi Yoshida (1876-1950). Hodaka Yoshida's work was abstract, beginning with painting and evolving into printmaking. His inspirations varied as his career continued throughout his life, but Hodaka Yoshida's work generally focused on nature, "primitive" art, Buddhism, the elements, and landscapes. Hodaka Yoshida's print work used woodcut, photo etching, collage, and lithography, collaborating with many of these mediums and making original and fantastic works. Outside of prints Hodaka Yoshida also painted and created sculptures. Abstract (1958) 11" x 15 7/8" Yoshida Ayomi - is the daughter of Chizuko and Hodaka Yoshida. She is a visual artist who works in mokuhanga, installations and commercial design. Ayomi’s subject matter is colour, lines, water, and shape. Ayomi’s lecture referred to by Jeannie at PAM can be found . She teaches printmaking and art. You can find more info . Spring Rain (2018) woodblock installation Kawase Hasui (1883-1957), a designer of more than six hundred woodblock prints, is one of the most famous artists of the shin-hanga movement of the early twentieth century. Hasui began his career under the guidance of Kaburaki Kiyokata (1878-1971), joining several artistic societies early on. However, it wasn’t until he joined the Watanabe atelier in 1918 that he began to gain significant recognition. Watanabe Shōzaburō (1885-1962) commissioned Hasui to design landscapes of the Japanese countryside, small towns, and scenes of everyday life. Hasui also worked closely with the carvers and printers to achieve the precise quality he envisioned for his prints. Spring Rain at Sakurada Gate (1952) 10 3/8" x 15 3/8" Shōzaburō Watanabe (1885-1962) - was one of the most important print publishers in Japan in the early 20th Century. His business acumen and desire to preserve the ukiyo-e tradition were incredibly influential for the artists and collectors in Japan and those around the world. Watanabe influenced other publishers, but his work in the genre is unparalleled. The shin-hanga (new print) movement is Watanabe’s, collecting some of the best printers, carvers and designers to work for him. A great article by The Japan Times in 2022 discusses a touring exhibition of Watanabe’s work called Shin Hanga: New Prints of Japan, which can be found . Impressionism - was an art movement that emerged in France in the late 19th century, characterized by a focus on capturing the fleeting effects of light and color in everyday scenes. Instead of detailed realism, Impressionist artists like Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas used loose brushwork and vibrant colors to convey the atmosphere and momentary impressions of their subjects. This movement broke from traditional art by often painting en plein air (outdoors) and prioritizing personal perception over exact representation, leading to a revolutionary shift in modern art. Wassily Kandinsky (1866–1944) - was a key figure in the development of abstract art, known for using color and form to express emotions and ideas without representational content. His influential writings and innovative approach helped shape modern art, making him a central figure in movements like Expressionism and the Bauhaus. Stars (1938) 13 7/8" x 10 1/4" colour lithograph Charles Freer (1854–1919) - was an American industrialist and art collector, best known for his significant contributions to the field of art through the establishment of the Freer Gallery of Art. Freer was a wealthy entrepreneur who made his fortune in the railroad industry. In his later years, he became an avid collector of art, particularly Asian art, including Chinese and Japanese ceramics, paintings, and sculptures. Nakagawa Hachiro (1877-1922) - was a close friend of Yoshida Hiroshi and traveled to the United States together for the first time in 1899. He was a yōga painter and showed primarily in Japan. Landcape in The Inland Sea 13.94" x 20.87" colour on watercolour The Great Kanto Earthquake - struck Japan on September 1, 1923, with a magnitude of approximately 7.9. It devastated the Kanto region, including Tokyo and Yokohama, causing widespread destruction and fires that led to the deaths of over 100,000 people. The earthquake also resulted in significant infrastructure damage, homelessness, and economic disruption. In the aftermath, the disaster prompted major rebuilding efforts and urban planning changes. Additionally, the earthquake led to social and political unrest, including widespread anti-Korean sentiment, as rumors falsely blamed Korean immigrants for the disaster. Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858) - born in Edo, Hiroshige is famous for his landscape series of that burgeoning city. The most famous series being, One Hundred Famous Views of Edo (1856-1859), and the landcape series, Fifty-Three Stations of the Tōkaidō (1833-1834). His work highlights bokashi, and bright colours. More info about his work can be found, . Thirty Six Views of Mount Fuji No. 21 Lake at Hakone 14" x 9 1/4" Kawase Hasui (1883-1957) - a designer of more than six hundred woodblock prints, Kawase Hasui is one of the most famous designers of the shin-hanga movement of the early twentieth century. Hasui began his career with the artist and woodblock designer Kaburaki Kiyokata (1878-1971), joining several artistic societies along the way early in his career. It wasn’t until he joined the Watanabe atelier in 1918 that he really began to gain recognition. Watanabe Shōzaburō (1885-1962) had Hasui design landscapes of the Japanese country-side, small towns, and everyday life. Hasui also worked closely with the carvers and printers of his prints to reach the level Hasui wanted his prints to be. Selection of Views of the Tokaido (1934) Bishu Seto Kilns 15 3/4" x 10 3/8" Itō Shinsui (1898-1972) - Nihon-ga, and woodblock print artist and designer who worked for print publisher Watanabe Shōzaburō (1885-1962). Shinsui designed some of our most famous shin hanga, or “new” prints of the early 20th century. One of my favorites is “” 1930. Kasumi Teshigawara Arranging Chrysanthemums (1966) 21 7/8" x 16 1/2" Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) - is one of the most famous Japanese artists to have ever lived. Hokusai was an illustrator, painter and woodblock print designer. His work can be found on paper, wood, silk, and screen. His woodblock print design for Under The Wave off Kanagawa (ca. 1830-32) is beyond famous. His work, his manga, his woodblocks, his paintings, influence artists from all over the world. Tama River in Musashi Province from 36 Views of Mount Fuji (1830-32) 9 7/8" x 14 7/8" Boston Museum of Fine Arts - a museum with a rich history with Japanese artwork, especially woodblock prints. It holds the largest collection of Japanese art outside of Japan. Many of their woodblock prints are held online, . A video on YouTube found, , describing the MFA’s history, and its collections. Onchi Kōshirō (1891-1955) - originally designing poetry and books Onchi became on of the most important sōsaku hanga artists and promotor of the medium. His works are highly sought after today. More info, . Nijubashi Bridge to the Imperial Palace from Scenes of Lost Tokyo (1945) 7.8" x 11.1" published by Uemura Masuro Tarō Okamoto (1911–1996) was a prominent Japanese artist known for his avant-garde works and dynamic use of color and form. His art, which includes painting, sculpture, and public installations like the "Tower of the Sun," often explores themes of chaos and modernity. Okamoto was influential in Japanese contemporary art and also made significant contributions as a writer and cultural commentator. More info, . Seashore (1976) lithograph 5.55" × 22.05" Oliver Statler (1915-2002) - was an American author and scholar and collector of mokuhanga. He had been a soldier in World War 2, having been stationed in Japan. After his time in the war Statler moved back to Japan where he wrote about Japanese prints. His interests were of many facets of Japanese culture such as accommodation, and the 88 Temple Pilgrimage of Shikoku. Oliver Statler, in my opinion, wrote one of the most important books on the sōsaku-hanga movement, “Modern Japanese Prints: An Art Reborn.” St. Olaf College - is a private liberal arts college located in Northfield, Minnesota. Founded in 1874 by Norwegian-American settlers, it has a strong emphasis on a comprehensive liberal arts education, integrating rigorous academics with a commitment to fostering critical thinking, leadership, and global citizenship. The college is known for its vibrant community, strong programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, and its affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). St. Olaf is also recognized for its strong music program, including its acclaimed choir and music ensembles. More info, . The Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) - is an art museum in Detroit, Michigan, founded in 1885. It is known for its extensive collection of artworks from various cultures and periods, including significant American, European, and African art. The DIA is particularly famous for Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals and serves as a major cultural center with diverse exhibitions and educational programs. More info, . baren - is a Japanese word to describe a flat, round-shaped disc, predominantly used in creating Japanese woodblock prints. It is traditionally made of a cord of various types and a bamboo sheath, although baren have many variations. Jeannie Kenmotsu, PhD - is the Arlene and Harold Schnitzer Curator of Asian Art at the Portland Art Museum in Portland, Oregon. She specializes in early modern Japanese art, with a focus on painting, illustrated books, and prints. Her interview with The Unfinished Print about her work about the Joryū Hanga Kyōkai can be found, . © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit - by Gordon Lightfoot - Affair on 8th Avenue from the album Back Here On Earth (1968) on United Artists. logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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William Mathie : Printmaker - Planting Seeds
08/09/2024
William Mathie : Printmaker - Planting Seeds
Mokuhanga becomes a part of those who open themselves to its possibilities. It draws you in as an art form, with its seeming simplicity, and guides you on a profound journey of exploration. One of the strengths of mokuhanga as a practice is its ability to harmonize with other artistic and academic endeavors, enriching one's life in many ways. On this episode of The Unfinished Print, I speak with William Mathie, a teacher and relief printmaker based in Pennsylvania. We discuss Bill’s discovery of mokuhanga in the 1980s and how his academic and artistic journey in printmaking evolved, leading him to rediscover mokuhanga later in life. Bill and I delve into his personal mokuhanga teachers, his work on the Pennsylvania Print Symposium in 2006, his printmaking philosophies, his time at the First International Mokuhanga Conference in Awaji and Kyoto, and we also explore his own mokuhanga work, materials, making tools and how he views mokuhanga through an academic lens. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. William Mathie - , Guarding The Cheese The golden age of mokuhanga is generally considered to be during the Edo period (1603-1898), when the art of color woodcut flourished in Japan. Although woodblock printing in Japan has its origins around 700 CE, color woodblock printing began in 1743. Rudy Pozzati (1925-2021) - was an American Professor Emeritus, painter, and printmaker who traveled extensively through grants early in life. Later, he served as a professor at Indiana University Bloomington from 1956 to 1991. Indiana University is a public research university in Bloomington, Indiana. He worked in various styles of printmaking and studied mokuhanga in Japan in the 1980s. Man-eating Mares of King Diomedes (2009) one colour lithograph, 24 3/4" x 33 3/4" The Adachi Institute of Woodblock Prints - is a print studio located in Tōkyō. Established in 1994 in order to promote and preserve the colour woodblock print of Japan. More information, in and in . Kenji Takenaka - is a mokuhanga printmaker based in Kyoto. He is a fifth generation printmaker, who has demonstrated mokuhanga technique throughout the world. He established the Takenaka Woodblock Printing Company (Takesazado) to help teach and promote mokuhanga. More information can be found, . Chikurin 10.6" x 15.3" The Japan Foundation - established in October 1972 as a government-affiliated corporation and relaunched in 2003 as an independent administrative institution under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, promotes international cultural exchange through a variety of programs. With its global network, including offices in Japan and 22 overseas locations, the Foundation focuses on Arts and Cultural Exchange, Japanese-Language Education Overseas, and Japanese Studies and Intellectual Exchange. It is funded by a government endowment, annual subsidies, investment revenue, and private donations. Tuula Moilanen - is a Finnish mokuhanga printmaker and painter based in Finland. She lived and studied in Kyōto from 1989 to 2012, where she learned her printmaking at Kyōto Seika University and from printmaker Akira Kurosaki (1937–2019). Her work can be found . Her interview with The Unfinished Print can be found . Blooming Sky 2, (2017) 10.2" x 14.2" Yukō Harada - is a mokuhanga printmaker based in Kyoto, and works at Kenji Takenaka's Takesazado and is considered a sixth generation printmaker. An interview with Ms. Harada can be found at amirisu, . Rainy Season Stripes 7" x 5" Evan Summer - He is a printmaker and Professor Emeritus based in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. He has an extensive CV of artist-in-residence programs and has focused his print work on etching. More information can be found on his , and on . Landscape With Sloped Horizon (State 1) lithograph printed by Tim Sheelsey at Corridor Press (2003) 36" x 30" registration - there are several registration methods in mokuhanga. The traditional method is called the kentō registration, where you carve two notches, straight another an "L." There is also a "floating kentō," which is where the notches are cut in a piece of "L" shaped wood and not on the wood where you are cutting your image, hence "floating." Lastly, there are removable "pins," such as ones made by . intaglio printing - is a printing method, also called etching, using metal plates such as zinc, and copper, creating “recessed” areas which are printed with ink on the surface of these "recesses.” More info, . The MET has info, . Andy Farkas - is a mokuhanga printmaker, author, mentor, and documentarian based in Pennsylvania. Andy's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Watching Over 16" x 10" serigraphy - is another word for the art of silk screen printing. Silk screen printing can be in on various materials, silk, canvas, paper. lithography: A printing process where images are transferred onto a surface using a flat plate or stone. Edinboro University in Pennsylvania - a part of PennWest Edinboro, is a public university located in Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Established in 1857 as Edinboro Academy and has a rich history of providing higher education. Before becoming part of the Pennsylvania Western University system in 2022, Edinboro University was known for its strong programs in education, art, and nursing. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. John Lysak - is a master printmaker and artist. He is associated, like William Mathie, with Egress Press, a fine art publishing and research component of the Printmaking Area of Edinboro University of Pennsylvania’s Art Department. More information can be found Palix River Marshlands (2022) acrylic on board 11" x 17" wood engraving - is a printmaking technique where an artist carves an image with burins and engravers, into the surface of a block of wood. The block is then printed using pigments and pressed into paper. Wood engraving uses the end grain of a hardwood block, typically boxwood. This allows for much finer detail and more intricate lines. Thomas Bewick (1753–1828), and Eric Gill (1882–1940) are some popular wood engravers. The Great Wave off Kanagawa - is a woodblock print designed by Katsushika Hokusai in 1831. It is very famous. Miami University at Ohio - is a public research university in Oxford, Ohio. International Mokuhanga Conference, 2011 - was the first international conference on mokuhanga, held in two locations in Japan: Kyoto and the Awaji Islands, which are located near Shikoku. Keizo Sato - is a second generation mokuhanga printmaker based in Kyoto. Mr. Sato created the Sato Woodblock Print Center to teach mokuhanga. It is associated with Kyoto Seika University. An interview with Mr. Sato conducted by Fine Art JPN can be found, . Hiroshi Fujisawa - is a master carver and has been carving mokuhanga for over fifty years. He demonstrated at the first International Mokuhanga Conference in 2011. A lovely blog post about an interaction with Hiroshi Fujisawa can be found, on printmaker Annie Bissett's blog. Annie's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Karen Kunc - is an American printmaker and Professor Emeritus at the University of Nebraska Lincoln and is based in Nebraska. Karen Kunc works in various artistic and printmaking styles but has worked in mokuhanga for many years. More information can be found on her website, . A Cluster (2023) 15" x 11" Young Woman Blowing a Popen - is a mokuhanga print designed by Kitagawa Utamaro (?-1806). Utamaro was one of the first famous woodblock print designers in the Edo Period of Japan made famous by his bijin prints of beautiful women. The print was first printed in 1792/93. It is from the series Ten Classes of Women's Physiognomy. Energy Policy, 2005 - George W. Bush's energy policy prioritized expanding domestic fossil fuel production, including controversial drilling in protected areas like the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, and offered substantial subsidies to the oil and gas industry while neglecting renewable energy development. Critics argue that this approach increased greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbated climate change, and harmed public health due to higher pollution levels. Additionally, by failing to diversify energy sources and invest in sustainable alternatives, the policy left the U.S. vulnerable to energy security risks and has delayed the transition to a cleaner energy economy. Punch Magazine - Punch magazine, founded in 1841 in London, was a British weekly publication known for its satirical humor and cartoons. Punch played a significant role in shaping British satire and social commentary during the 19th and early 20th centuries. It became famous for its witty and often biting critiques of politics, society, and culture, influencing public opinion. Despite its early success and influence, the magazine eventually declined in readership and ceased publication in 2002. Echizen - is a region in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, known for its long history of papermaking. The area is home to many paper artisans. One notable figure is Iwano Ichibei. He is a Living National Treasure in papermaking and the ninth generation of his family still making paper today. More information can be found here.in , and here in . Morgan Conservatory of Papermaking - established in 2008, the Morgan Conservatory of Papermaking is a nonprofit organization based in Cleveland, Ohio, dedicated to preserving papermaking techniques from around the world. It also serves as a working studio and gallery. More information can be found . The Morgan Library & Museum - based New York City, originally the private library of financier J.P. Morgan, it was established in 1906 and became a public institution in 1924. It houses an extensive collection of rare books, manuscripts, drawings, and prints, including works by literary and musical greats like Charles Dickens and Mozart. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions and serves as a cultural hub, renowned for its architectural beauty and significant contributions to literature, history, and the arts. More information can be found, . © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit - live music at The Seabird jazz bar in Aoyama, Tōkyō, Japan. logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Andy Farkas : Printmaker - Mindset
07/23/2024
Andy Farkas : Printmaker - Mindset
Mokuhanga is an art form of the physical. It is the use of our hands which carve, brush, and print, ultimately creating the final product. Through the physical act of making, mokuhanga carvers and printmakers explore themselves through their work, while at the same time producing a philosophy on how they see their own mokuhanga and the mokuhanga community at large. On this episode of The Unfinished Print, I speak with printmaker Andy Farkas. Andy is an American mokuhanga printmaker, mentor, and teacher who has explored in great detail what it means to create, the philosophies and sacrifices it takes to try and understand the simple question of “why?” Why create, why make, and why pursue a passion with an unknown conclusion? I speak with Andy about his mokuhanga, his materials, and how he approaches his prints. We discuss how Andy explores mokuhanga as an intellectual pursuit through the expressions of documentary, instruction, and writing. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Andy Farkas - , registration - there are several registration methods in mokuhanga. The traditional method is called the kentō registration, where you carve two notches, straight another an "L." There is also a "floating kentō," which is where the notches are cut in a piece of "L" shaped wood and not on the wood where you are cutting your image, hence "floating." Lastly, there are removable "pins," such as ones made by . lithography: A printing process where images are transferred onto a surface using a flat plate or stone. A video regarding lithography from The British Museum can be found, . Edinboro University in Pennsylvania - a part of PennWest Edinboro, is a public university located in Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Established in 1857 as Edinboro Academy and has a rich history of providing higher education. Before becoming part of the Pennsylvania Western University system in 2022, Edinboro University was known for its strong programs in education, art, and nursing. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. William Mathie - is a printmaker and the Director of Egress Press & Research based at Edinboro University in Pennsylvania. He works in mokuhanga and intaglio printmaking. Hear No Evil (16.5" x 12") - is the registration system used by printmakers in order to line up the colour woodblocks with your key block, or outline block, carved first. letterpress - is a type of relief printing using a printing press. It was popular during the Industrial Revolution and the modernization of the West. By the mid-twentieth century, letterpress began to be regarded more as an art form, with artists using the medium for books, stationery, and greeting cards. John Lysak - is a master printmaker and artist. He is associated with Egress Press, a fine art publishing and research component of the Printmaking Area of Edinboro University of Pennsylvania’s Art Department. More information can be found Sunflowers In Bright Light - acrylic on board 14" x 18" Tuula Moilanen - is a Finnish mokuhanga printmaker and painter based in Finland. She lived and studied in Kyōto from 1989 to 2012, where she learned her printmaking at Kyōto Seika University and from printmaker Akira Kurosaki (1937–2019). Her work can be found . Her interview with The Unfinished Print can be found . Urban Holiday (2016) 14.37" x 11.81" wood engraving - is a printmaking technique where an artist carves an image with burins and engravers, into the surface of a block of wood. The block is then printed using pigments and pressed into paper. Wood engraving uses the end grain of a hardwood block, typically boxwood. This allows for much finer detail and more intricate lines. Thomas Bewick (1753–1828), and Eric Gill (1882–1940) are some popular wood engravers. Eric Gill, On The Tiles (1921) representational art - is a form of art that attempts to depict subjects as they appear in the real world. It includes anything that portrays objects, figures, or scenes in a recognizable manner. Representational art focuses on representing objects or scenes from reality, such as landscapes, and still lives. figurative art - is an art form which represents form or shapes in either representational or non representational forms. serif - is a typographic style of font with a small line or stroke regularly attached to the end of a larger stroke. gouache: is a water-based paint known for its opaque and vibrant colours. Made from pigment, water, and gum arabic as a binder, it offers artists versatility in creating both translucent washes and opaque layers. Gouache can be reactivated with water and comes in a range of colors, making it a popular choice for various painting techniques. gum arabic - is a sap from two types of Acacia tree. In art it is used as a binder for pigments which creates viscosity (depending on how much or little is applied to your pigments) for your watercolours and oils. Rachel Levitas has a fine description on how she uses gum arabic in her work, . Sinopia Pigments - is a pigment company based in San Francisco and started by Alex Warren in 1995. The company sells natural powdered pigments and milk paints. More info can be found . Earth Pigments - is a pigment company based in Hinesburg, Vermont. They sell natural powdered pigments and milk paints. More info can be found . Bound To It (11" x 16") © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit - Time After Time by Joshua Constantine from the album Soul Project Vol.II (2024) logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Jacqueline Gribbin : Printmaker - Adaptation
06/28/2024
Jacqueline Gribbin : Printmaker - Adaptation
Mokuhanga has the ability to take the artist or craftsperson anywhere they would like to be. From the subject matter in their studio to physical movement around the world, teaching, exploring, and discovering. Wonder and beauty is what makes mokuhanga so special. In this episode of The Unfinished Print, I speak with printmaker Jacqueline Gribbin, who has spent years honing her craft in mokuhanga and other printmaking techniques across Japan, Southeast Asia, and Australia. We discuss her deep connection with Indigenous communities, collaborating with the late Ralph Kiggell, and exploring the nuances of water-based and oil-based mokuhanga. Jaqueline explains her experiences traveling to isolated communities, conducting workshops, and sharing her passion for printmaking. We'll explore her teaching methods, the importance of community in her work, and how she balances creating and selling her prints. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Jacqueline Gribbin - Shifting Tides (2022) Nagasawa Art Park (MI Lab) Awaji City - Nagasawa Art Park was an artist-in-residence program located in Awaji City, Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan. It was open for 12 years before evolving into MI Lab in 2012. More info, . Keiko Kadota (1942-2017) - was the director of Nagasawa Art Park at Awaji City from 1997-2011, and then of MI Lab at Lake Kawaguchi from 2011 until her passing. Toru Ueba - was a print instructor at Nagasawa Art Park, and was one of Yoonmi's instructors in 2004. Ralph Kiggell (1960-2022) - was one of the most important mokuhanga practitioners. Originally from England, Ralph lived and worked in Thailand. Ralph pushed the boundaries of mokuhanga with extremely large pieces, jigsaw carving, and by using fantastic colour. He also worked with the International Mokuhanga Conference to promote mokuhanga around the world. He will be greatly missed. Ralph's work can be found, . His obituary in The Guardian can be found, . His interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Orange Flower On Blue Hiroki Satake - is a mokuhanga printmaker, and instructor based in Japan. He has taught at MI Lab, as well as given demonstrations regarding tool sharpening, around the world. 赤絵（アンドレ・マルティ「狼よ！」より) (2022) 34.7cm×28.4cm registration - there are several registration methods in mokuhanga. The traditional method is called the kentō registration, where you carve two notches, straight another an "L." There is also a "floating kentō," which is where the notches are cut in a piece of "L" shaped wood and not on the wood where you are cutting your image, hence "floating." Lastly, there are removable "pins," such as ones made by . bokashi - is a mokuhanga technique, where the pigment fades from a heavy colour to a softer, broad colour. Made famous by prints designed by Hokusai and Hiroshige, this technique is, for me, the most popular technique utilized by mokuhanga printmakers. There are various types: Ichimoji-bokashi or straight line graduation, used in the above mentioned Hiroshige and Hokusai prints. Ichimoji-mura-bokashi or straight line gradation with uneven edge. Ō-bokashi or wide gradation, Ate-nashi-bokashi or gradation without definition. Futa-iro-bokashi or two tone gradation, and ita-bokashi or softer-edge gradation, where the block is cut in a specific way to achieve this style of gradation. All of these styles of bokashi technique take practice and skill but are very much doable. Below is a fine example of bokashi by Paul Binnie: The Torii Gate at Miyajima (2009) 37.5 x 26cm sizing paper - at times mokuhanga printmakers will size their paper. Size is made from water, animal glue (rabbit, horse), and alum. What the size does is keep the pigments the artist uses from “bleeding” into the outer edges of the paper. There are many recipes of size, is one that artist Walter J. Phillips used. intaglio printing - is a printing method, also called etching, using metal plates such as zinc, and copper, creating “recessed” areas which are printed with ink on the surface of these "recesses.” More info, . The MET has info, . serigraphy - is another word for the art of silk screen printing. Silk screen printing can be in on various materials, silk, canvas, paper. lithography: A printing process where images are transferred onto a surface using a flat plate or stone. Yoshitaka Amano (b. 1952) - is a character designer for the Final Fantasy video game series. He uses ukiyo-e and Japanese woodblock prints as insirpation for some of his work. Takashi Murakami (b. 1962) is a contemporary artist best known for his fine art works and contributions to the commercial market. His works are heavily influenced by manga and anime, characterized by their bright colors and distinctive style. Multicolour Superflat Flowers - archival pigment print, silkscreen, 45 cm x 17.7cm Margaret Thatcher 1925-2013) - was the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1979 to 1990. She was the first woman to hold the office and remains one of the most influential figures in British political history. Leading the Conservative Party, Thatcher implemented a series of economic policies known as "Thatcherism," which emphasized deregulation, privatization of state-owned industries, and reducing the power and influence of trade unions. Her tenure was marked by significant economic transformation, as well as controversial measures that sparked widespread debate and protest. Tamarind Institute - was originally founded in Los Angeles in 1960 by June Wayne, and is a world renowned center for fine art lithography. Established to revive and sustain the art of lithography, which was in decline in the United States, Tamarind quickly became a leader in the education and promotion of lithographic techniques. In 1970, the institute moved to the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, where it continues to thrive as a key institution in the printmaking world. Dedicated to advancing the lithographic arts through rigorous education, collaborative projects, and the production of high-quality prints, the Tamarind Institute's influence extends globally, contributing significantly to the development and appreciation of lithography as a vibrant art form. More info, . STPI Creative Workshop & Gallery - which stands for Singapore Thailand Print Institute is an educational gallery and workshop, based in Singapore. More info, . International Mokuhanga Conference, 2011 - was the first international conference on mokuhanga which was separated in two parts, Kyoto and the Awaji Islands in Japan. MI Lab - is a mokuhanga artists residency located in Kawaguchi-ko, near Mount Fuji. More info can be found, . Hiroki Morinoue - is a mokuhanga printmaker and artist living in Holualoa, Big Island, Hawai’i. He is a co-founding member of the Holualoa Foundation For Arts & Culture, the establishment of the and . Hiroki's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Incoming Tide 30.5 x 30.5cm - is an artist and Professor of Art Emerita at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington. She is a painter, and printmaker in various relief mediums, such as mokuhanga. Keiko also leads the Mokuhanga Project Space based in Walla Walla, Washington. More info on Keiko's work can be found, . More info regarding the Mokuhanga Project Space, . Verse Space M-1, lithography and stencil, 55.8 cm x 76.2 cm Yamanashi Prefecture - (山梨県, Yamanashi-ken) is located in the Chūbu region of Honshu, Japan, and borders Saitama Prefecture to the northeast, Nagano Prefecture to the northwest, Shizuoka Prefecture to the southwest, Kanagawa Prefecture to the southeast, and Tokyo to the east. The capital and largest city is Kōfu. Yamanashi is one of only eight landlocked prefectures in Japan, with most of the population residing in the central Kōfu Basin, surrounded by the Akaishi Mountains. 27% of its land area is designated as Natural Parks, and it is home to many of Japan's highest mountains, including Mount Fuji, the country's tallest peak and a significant cultural icon, which is partially located on the border with Shizuoka Prefecture. Tiwi Islands - which means "two islands," are part of the Northern Territory, Australia, located 80 km (50 mi) north of Darwin. They comprise Melville Island, Bathurst Island, and nine smaller uninhabited islands, with a combined area of 8,320 square kilometers (3,212 sq mi). The islands have been inhabited by the Tiwi, an Aboriginal Australian people, since before European settlement, with a population of 2,348 recorded in the 2021 census. The Tiwi Land Council, one of four land councils in the Northern Territory, serves as a representative body with statutory authority under the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 and holds responsibilities under the Native Title Act 1993 and the Pastoral Land Act 1992. Charles Darwin University - was established in 2003 in the Northern Territory of Australia, and resulted from the merger of Northern Territory University, Centralian College, and the Menzies School of Health Research. Named after naturalist Charles Darwin, CDU focuses on research and education tailored to the unique challenges of the region, with strong emphasis on Indigenous education and partnerships. The university offers a broad range of programs across disciplines like health, education, engineering, business, and environmental science, and is recognized for its research in desert knowledge, Indigenous systems, tropical health, and sustainable development. With campuses in Darwin, Alice Springs, Katherine, and Nhulunbuy, CDU plays a crucial role in the educational, economic, and social development of the Northern Territory. The More Than Human World: North Australian Ecologies was the exhibit which Jacqueline speaks on in her episode. The exhibit catalogue can be found, . Balgo - also known as Wirrimanu, is a remote Aboriginal community in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. Home to the Kukatja people and other desert groups like the Ngarti and Warlpiri, Balgo is renowned for its vibrant art scene, particularly through the Warlayirti Artists art center, which produces art reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the local people. The community, accessible mainly via local roads and air, provides essential services such as a health clinic, school and plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Indigenous culture and traditions. A description of Wirrimaru can be found, via Deutscher and Hackett. Printmaking Today - is a magazine published by Cello Press in England, and is published quarterly. The magazine focuses on printmaking themes and artists. More info, . Arnhem Land - is located in the northeastern Northern Territory of Australia, and is a vast and culturally rich region covering approximately 97,000 square kilometers. Bordered by the Arafura Sea, the Gulf of Carpentaria, and Kakadu National Park, it is one of the largest Aboriginal reserves in Australia, home to around 16,000 Indigenous people, primarily the Yolngu. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, including rugged coastlines, rainforests, and wetlands, Arnhem Land is also a cultural treasure, famous for Indigenous art, music, and traditions. Access is restricted to protect its heritage, and the region plays a crucial role in Indigenous land rights movements and the preservation of Aboriginal culture. Foundry Vineyards - based in Walla Walla, Washington is a vineyard and art space. It has been hosting artists from all types of media such as painting and printmaking since 2010. It has exhibited The Mokuhanga Project Space, printmaker Mike Lyon, and the International Mokuhanga Print Exhibit. More info about this space and the good it does for the art community at large can be found, . Ozu Washi - is a paper store located in the Nihonbashi district of Tokyo. , Wood Like Matsumura - is an and brick and mortar store, for woodblock printmaking, located in Nerima City, Tōkyō. uwa senka long - is a Thai kozo machine made paper which can be used for mokuhanga. The Japanese Paper Place- is a Toronto based Japanese paper store servicing the Mokuhanga community for many years. Interview with the Nancy Jacobi of the JPP can be found, . gouache: is a water-based paint known for its opaque and vibrant colours. Made from pigment, water, and gum arabic as a binder, it offers artists versatility in creating both translucent washes and opaque layers. Gouache can be reactivated with water and comes in a range of colors, making it a popular choice for various painting techniques. The Adelaide River - is a significant waterway in the Northern Territory of Australia, extending approximately 180 km from its source in the Litchfield National Park to its mouth at the Timor Sea. The river flows through lush wetlands, dense mangroves, and open floodplains, providing a rich habitat for diverse wildlife. It is particularly renowned for its large population of saltwater crocodiles. © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit - Stardust by Lester Young, Oscar Peterson Trio. (1956) © UMG Recordings logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Jason Fujiwara : Printmaker - A Visual Diary
05/20/2024
Jason Fujiwara : Printmaker - A Visual Diary
Mokuhanga today can be made in so many ways. So many inspirations, so many people creating beautiful pieces from all over the world. Coming to you from Obihiro, Hokkaido, I have been traveling around Japan for over a month. Coming back to Japan is always an inspiring act and it is already like a second home to me. What brought me back to Japan this time around was the 2024 International Mokuhanga Conference held in Echizen City, Fukui, Japan. Meeting with so many mokuhanga artists, carvers, and printers inspired me and makes me want to be a better artist and to make a better podcast. On this episode of The Unfinished Print I speak with one of the mokuhanga artists who also attended the 2024 IMC. Jason Fujiwara. Jason lives and works in Tokyo, Japan where he creates his mokuhanga. Jason and I speak together about how he approaches his work, his inspirations, the idea of cultural identity in his prints , his time at the 2024 International Mokuhanga Conference, and Jason even asks me some questions. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Jason Fujiwara - , Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858) - born in Edo, Hiroshige is famous for his landscape series of that burgeoning city. The most famous series being, One Hundred Famous Views of Edo (1856-1859), and the landcape series, Fifty-Three Stations of the Tōkaidō (1833-1834). His work highlights bokashi, and bright colours. More info about his work can be found, . Ōiso: from the series The Tōkaidō Road - The Fifty-three Stations (1851-52) Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) - is one of the most famous Japanese artists to have ever lived. Hokusai was an illustrator, painter and woodblock print designer. His work can be found on paper, wood, silk, and screen. His woodblock print design for Under The Wave off Kanagawa (ca. 1830-32) is beyond famous. His work, his manga, his woodblocks, his paintings, influence artists from all over the world. Poem by Sangi Hitoshi : the series One Hundred Poems Explained by the Nurse (n.d.) David Bull - is a Canadian woodblock printmaker, and educator who lives and works in Japan. His love of mokuhanga has almost singlehandedly promoted the art form around the world. His company, Mokuhankan, has a brick and mortar store in Asakusa, Tōkyō, and online, . The Forest In Summer: From the Series "My Solitudes." (2007-9) Ema Shin - Based in Melbourne, Australia, Ema Shin hails from Niigata, Japan. She pursued her education in printmaking at Tama Art University in Tokyo. Currently, her work spans across various mediums including papier-mâché, embroidery, tapestry weaving, bookmaking, urauchi, collage, and mokuhanga. For more information, visit . Soft Alchemy (Fertile Heart) Woven tapestry, cotton, wool, 21" x 31" x 2.3", Matthew Stanton photography. (2019) Terry McKenna - is a mokuhanga printmaker and teacher residing in Karuizawa, Japan. He received guidance in the art form from Richard Steiner, a prominent mokuhanga printmaker based in Kyoto. Terry established the Karuizawa Mokuhanga School, a renowned residency dedicated to mokuhanga education. For further details about Terry and his school, here. Additionally, you can read Terry's interview with The Unfinished Print, and Richard Steiner's interview . Beauty (2010) mokume - is a woodblock printing technique where, by using heavy pressure on wood which contains a heavy grain, the artist can reveal the grain in their work. Below is a fine example of mokume technique by Osamu Sugiyama: 10 Views of Mt. Fuji - Moonlight over Shinobino Moor (13"x16.9") bokashi - is a mokuhanga technique, where the pigment fades from a heavy colour to a softer, broad colour. Made famous by prints designed by Hokusai and Hiroshige, this technique is, for me, the most popular technique utilized by mokuhanga printmakers. There are various types: Ichimoji-bokashi or straight line graduation, used in the above mentioned Hiroshige and Hokusai prints. Ichimoji-mura-bokashi or straight line gradation with uneven edge. Ō-bokashi or wide gradation, Ate-nashi-bokashi or gradation without definition. Futa-iro-bokashi or two tone gradation, and ita-bokashi or softer-edge gradation, where the block is cut in a specific way to achieve this style of gradation. All of these styles of bokashi technique take practice and skill but are very much doable. Below is a fine example of bokashi by Paul Binnie: Flowers of a Hundred Years: Bubble Era [of 1990] (18.5"x13") (2024) ukiyo-e - is a form of multi-color woodblock print and painting primarily associated with Japan's Edo Period (1603-1867). Originating in the 17th century with prints featuring only a few colors, it evolved into a sophisticated system of production and technique by the Meiji Period (1868-1912). However, with the emergence of photography and other printmaking methods, traditional ukiyo-e production ceased by the late 19th century, leaving behind a rich legacy in Japanese art history. Procreate - is a popular digital art app designed exclusively for iPad and iPhone. It offers a wide range of tools and features that allow artists to create digital illustrations, paintings, and designs with ease. Some of its key features include a variety of brushes, layers, blending modes, and advanced editing options. Procreate has gained popularity among digital artists due to its intuitive interface, powerful capabilities, and ability to produce high-quality artwork. A2 - is a paper size part of the ISO 216 standard and is commonly used for posters, architectural drawings, and other large format prints. Its dimensions are 594 x 420 millimeters or approximately 23.4 x 16.5 inches. Pansion paper - is a medium-heavy kozo paper, varying in size and weight and is predominantly used in printmaking. Ralph Kiggell (1960-2022) : was a highly influential figure in our world of mokuhanga printmaking. Originally from England, Ralph resided and practiced his art in Thailand. Renowned for his innovative approach, Ralph pushed the boundaries of mokuhanga through his creation of exceptionally large pieces, intricate jigsaw carving techniques, and vibrant color palettes. He also played a pivotal role in promoting mokuhanga globally through his involvement with the International Mokuhanga Conference. His legacy will be deeply felt and cherished by the mokuhanga community. You can explore Ralph's work, . You can read his obituary in The Guardian and his interview with The Unfinished Print, . White Orchid (n.d.) Keiko Kobayashi - is a mokuhanga printmaker and administrator of the International Mokuhanga Conference. She lives and works in Tokyo, Japan. More information can be found, . 花喰い(6) 蝋梅に四十雀 (2024) 4"x4" nengajō - (年賀状) what began as a way for Japanese nobility to communicate with faraway friends and family during the New Year festive period, has become a way for all people to send New Year greetings to their own friends and family. More info, . Kay Watanabe - is an artist located in Brisbane, Australia. Her creative endeavors span across various mediums, including mokuhanga and other printmaking techniques, painting, drawing, and photography. For further details about Kay and her artistic journey, visit . Heaven And Earth (2019) etching on paper Roslyn Keane - is a mokuhanga printmaker and baren designer situated in Sydney, Australia. Her artistic creations lean towards abstraction and often feature large-scale pieces crafted using a diverse range of techniques. For additional insights into Roslyn's work, her KBB barens, and her The Stables Print Studio, visit, . Transition (2019/20) © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing credit - eating in an izakaya in Himeji, Japan with friends recorded live in 2024. logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Wuon-Gean Ho : Printmaker - A Small Seed Of Intention
03/31/2024
Wuon-Gean Ho : Printmaker - A Small Seed Of Intention
When creating mokuhanga, one requires time – time to prepare, time to plan, and time to explore. The essence of the work emerges from this delicate balance of managing one's time and integrating life within mokuhanga. In this episode of 'The Unfinished Print,' I have the pleasure of speaking with printmaker Wuon-Gean Ho. Wuon-Gean approaches her mokuhanga with a keen focus on work-life balance, emphasizing creation not at the expense of life but as a means to enrich and enhance it. Join me as we delve into Wuon Gean's unique perspective on mokuhanga, how it skillfully blends with her other printmaking endeavors, learning under Akira Kurosaki, her educational experiences and we delve into her philosophies on living a life infused with art. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Wuon-Gean Ho - JET Programme - a teaching programme created in 1978, which is sponsored by the Japanese government, and various Japanese ministries. This organization brings people from around the world to teach English to Japanese students in grade school, junior high, and high schools throughout the country. More info, . Tate Modern - located in London, UK, and stands as one of the world's largest and most renowned contemporary art museums. It houses an extensive collection of international modern and contemporary art from around the world. The museum is known for its innovative exhibitions that showcase works by both established and emerging artists. Additionally, Tate Modern offers a variety of educational programs, workshops, and events designed to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Kyoto Seika University - situated in Kyoto, Japan, is a leading private university specializing in art and design education. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of art and design, including painting, sculpture, graphic design, and manga. Known for its rigorous academic curriculum, Kyoto Seika University emphasizes practical skills and creative expression. The institution has a rich history and tradition of nurturing talented artists and designers, with a strong focus on fostering creativity and innovation among its students. Akira Kurosaki 黒崎彰 (1937-2019) - was one of the most influential woodblock print artists of the modern era. His work, while seemingly abstract, moved people with its vibrant colour and powerful composition. He was a teacher and invented the “,” which is a great baren to begin your mokuhanga journey with. At the 2021 Mokuhanga Conference in Nara, Japan there was a tribute exhibit of his . Azusa Gallery has a nice selection of his work, . bokashi - is a mokuhanga technique, where the pigment fades from a heavy colour to a softer, broad colour. Made famous by prints designed by Hokusai and Hiroshige, this technique is, for me, the most popular technique utilized by mokuhanga printmakers. There are various types: Ichimoji-bokashi or straight line graduation, used in the above mentioned Hiroshige and Hokusai prints. Ichimoji-mura-bokashi or straight line gradation with uneven edge. Ō-bokashi or wide gradation, Ate-nashi-bokashi or gradation without definition. Futa-iro-bokashi or two tone gradation, and ita-bokashi or softer-edge gradation, where the block is cut in a specific way to achieve this style of gradation. All of these styles of bokashi technique take practice and skill but are very much doable. Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) - is one of the most, if not the most, famous Japanese artist ever known. He designed woodblock prints, as well as creating his own paintings, screens, scrolls, and commissioned art in Buddhist temples throughout Japan. More info, . The British Museum has a lot of info, . Devon - is a city located in the southwest of England, and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Rugged coastlines adorned with sandy and picturesque villages, Devon offers a wealth of attractions for visitors and locals alike. You can find more info on Devon tourism, . Fabriano paper - is a high-quality paper produced by the Fabriano paper mill in Fabriano, Italy. It is renowned for its exceptional durability, texture, and archival quality, making it a favorite among artists, printmakers, and conservators worldwide. Fabriano paper comes in various weights, textures, and finishes. It is prized for its ability to withstand repeated erasing, scraping, and wet media applications while retaining its integrity and beauty. Camellia oil - also known as tea seed oil, is a versatile vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of the Camellia oleifera or Camellia sinensis plant, which are the same species from which tea leaves are harvested. Originating in East Asia, particularly China and Japan, camellia oil has been used for centuries for culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal purposes. In mokuhanga it has been used to oil the baren when printing, making a smooth printing surface. Copperplate oil - is a substance used in the intaglio technique such as copperplate engraving or etching. This specialized oil, typically comprising linseed oil and resin, serves multiple purposes throughout the printmaking process. Initially applied to copper plates, it functions as a protective layer, guarding against oxidation while enhancing the quality of engraved or etched lines by promoting smoother, more consistent marks. Copperplate oil aids in achieving tonal effects and to the longevity of the final prints. It also serves as an effective agent for cleaning plates post-etching, ensuring the preservation of engraved details while removing excess ink. Ian Phillips - is a woodblock printmaker based in the UK. He works in water based printing, with the landscape of the sea as his main inspiration. More info of Ian's work can be found, . tabi hanga - is the collaborative printing method which Wuon-Gean describes in her episode. © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing musical credit - Audrey by Dave Brubeck from the album Brubeck Time released in 1955 on Columbia Records. logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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David Barker of The Muban Educational Trust
03/22/2024
David Barker of The Muban Educational Trust
Several years ago, a book caught my eye, called "Lu Xun’s Legacy". Published by the Muban Educational Trust, a non-profit dedicated to the preservation of woodblock art in China and located in London, England, it opened my eyes to Chinese woodblock prints. Reading the book, I realized how little I knew about printmaking, woodblock or otherwise, from China. All I really knew was that Japanese woodblock has roots within Chinese printmaking and I was curious as to how that transpired. Today, I speak with Senior Research Fellow at the Muban Educational Trust, David Barker. David’s interests lie in the history and techniques of Chinese printmaking, having written a book on the subject in 2005 called "Tradition and Techniques in Contemporary Chinese Printmaking". David speaks to me about the history of printmaking in China, its techniques, and process. David discusses his time in the country, how prints evolved from the pre-modern (Tang and Ming Dynasties, for instance) into more modern times. We discuss Lu Xun, and the history of purchasing and selling prints in China, and where printmaking in China is today. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Muban Educational Trust : Lu Xun (1881-1936) : was a seminal figure in modern Chinese literature, renowned for his impactful short stories and essays that exposed the societal and political issues of his era. Born in Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province, his works, including "The True Story of Ah Q" and "Diary of a Madman," critically examined the struggles of ordinary people and the shortcomings of traditional Chinese society. A staunch advocate for cultural and political reform, Lu Xun's writings continue to inspire and resonate with readers, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential writers in 20th-century Chinese literature. Goldsmiths College: A renowned public research university in London known for its arts, design, and humanities programs. etching: A printmaking technique where an image is created by using acid to etch lines or textures onto a metal plate. lithography: A printing process where images are transferred onto a surface using a flat plate or stone. St. Francis Xavier (1506-1552): was a Roman Catholic missionary who played a significant role in spreading Christianity in Asia, particularly in Japan and India, during the 16th century. Shimabara Rebellion: was a 17th-century uprising in Japan led by Christian peasants against oppressive feudal lords and the prohibition of Christianity. Cultural Revolution: A socio-political movement in China initiated by Mao Zedong in the 1960s aimed at purging "counter-revolutionary" elements and promoting Maoist ideology. Mao Zedong (1893-1976) - was the founder of the People's Republic of China and a key figure in Chinese communist history. Open Door Policy: A U.S. policy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries advocating for free trade and equal economic access to China among foreign powers. Gang of Four: A political faction led by Mao Zedong's wife, Jiang Qing, during the Cultural Revolution, known for its radical and controversial policies. Anne Farrer PhD: is the Senior Research Fellow at the MET with a BA in Chinese and a PhD in late Ming woodblock illustration from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. She has served in various roles at the Ashmolean Museum and the British Museum, focusing on Chinese painting, prints, and Central Asian collections. Currently, she is the Programme Director for the MA in East Asian Art at Sotheby’s Institute of Art in London and also works with the Muban Educational Trust. Dr. Farrer's exhibitions and publications span topics such as Chinese art from the Silk Route, traditional and contemporary Chinese printmaking, and she has a particular research interest in woodblock printing from seventeenth and eighteenth-century China. Tang Dynasty: An influential dynasty in Chinese history known for its cultural and economic prosperity during the 7th to 10th centuries. Ching Dynasty: Also known as the Qing Dynasty, the last imperial dynasty of China, ruling from 1644 to 1912. Ming Dynasty: preceding the Qing Dynasty, known for its cultural renaissance and maritime exploration during the 14th to 17th centuries. gouache: is a water-based paint known for its opaque and vibrant colours. Made from pigment, water, and gum arabic as a binder, it offers artists versatility in creating both translucent washes and opaque layers. Gouache can be reactivated with water and comes in a range of colors, making it a popular choice for various painting techniques. Gauguin in the South Pacific: refers to the artistic period of Paul Gauguin (1848-1903) when he lived and worked in the South Pacific islands, producing vibrant and exotic paintings. - is the registration system used by printmakers in order to line up the colour woodblocks with your key block, or outline block, carved first. Ten Bamboo Studio: was a renowned Chinese printing studio established during the Qing Dynasty. Founded by Hu Zhengyan, it produced exquisite woodblock-printed books known for intricate designs and high-quality craftsmanship. These publications covered literature, poetry, painting, and calligraphy, showcasing meticulous detail and vibrant colors. Today, works from the Ten Bamboo Studio are treasured cultural artifacts admired globally for their beauty and historical significance. The Ding Workshops: was a renowned studio in China specializing in traditional woodblock printing. For generations, the Ding family mastered the art of printmaking, producing high-quality prints that often depicted landscapes, figures, and daily life scenes with intricate details and rich colors. Their prints were highly sought after and played a significant role in preserving and promoting Chinese artistic heritage. Postmodernism in China: a cultural and artistic movement in China that emerged after the Cultural Revolution, characterized by a mix of traditional and contemporary influences. Christer von der Burg : founded the Han Shan Tang bookshop in 1978 in London, specializing in East Asian arts and culture books. Recognizing the underappreciation of Chinese prints compared to Japanese prints, he established the Muban Foundation in 1997 to promote Chinese printing knowledge. Over a decade, he amassed a collection of over 8,000 Chinese prints, now housed with the Muban Educational Trust. Retiring from the book business in 2000, Christer remains active, building one of the world's largest collections of antique Chinese prints, particularly from Suzhou. His passion has revitalized interest in Chinese woodblock printing, educating both artists and collectors on its significance, evident in today's rising print values at Chinese auctions. Cleveland Museum: The Cleveland Museum of Art, a major art museum located in Cleveland, Ohio, known for its diverse collection spanning various cultures and time periods. British Museum: A world-renowned museum in London, housing a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world. The Ashmolean Museum: in Oxford, England, one of the oldest public museums in the world, known for its extensive collection of art and archaeology. The Dresden Museum of Art: is renowned for its diverse collection of artworks from various periods and styles. Founded in the 19th century, it features masterpieces by artists like Raphael and Rembrandt. The museum's elegant architecture and rotating exhibitions attract art enthusiasts worldwide, making it a cultural hub in Dresden. Crown Point Press: A prestigious printmaking studio and publisher based in San Francisco, known for collaborating with renowned artists. oban: A traditional Japanese print size, approximately 10 x 15 inches, often used for Japanese style woodblock prints. Huizhou :located in Guangdong Province, China, is a city steeped in rich history and cultural heritage. Once a significant center of trade and commerce during the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Huizhou today blends its storied past with modern development. The city offers a mix of historical sites, natural parks, and cultural landmarks, making it a diverse and appealing destination. With its coastal location, Huizhou also attracts beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts. Furthermore, its thriving economy, particularly in industries like electronics and petrochemicals, highlights its importance as a dynamic hub in southern China. Beijing: The capital city of China, known for its historic landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, as well as its modern development. Tianjin: is situated in northeastern China, is a bustling metropolis renowned for its historical significance, vibrant culture, and modern development. As a major port city and economic hub, Tianjin blends traditional Chinese architecture and heritage sites with contemporary skyscrapers and bustling commercial districts. The city boasts a rich cultural scene, featuring theaters, museums, and galleries, as well as a diverse culinary landscape reflecting its cosmopolitan character. With its strategic location and rapid urbanization, Tianjin continues to thrive as a key player in China's economy and as a dynamic center for business, culture, and innovation. Yunnan Province - is a diverse and culturally rich province in southwest China, known for its stunning landscapes, ethnic minorities, and traditional crafts. Matteo Ricci (1552-1610) was an Italian Jesuit priest and missionary who played a key role in early interactions between China and the West during the Ming Dynasty. Ricci learned Chinese, adopted local customs, and impressed Chinese intellectuals with his knowledge of Western science and technology. He collaborated with Chinese scholar Xu Guangqi to translate Western texts into Chinese, promoting cultural exchange. Despite challenges from both Chinese officials and European Jesuits, Ricci's efforts laid the foundation for future East-West interactions and understanding. Manchu : are an ethnic group primarily originating from the northeastern region of China, historically known as Manchuria. In the 17th century, under the leadership of the Aisin Gioro clan, the Manchu established the Qing Dynasty, which ruled China from 1644 to 1912. Initially a nomadic and tribal people, the Manchu gradually adopted Chinese culture, language, and governance systems as they integrated into the broader Chinese civilization. Despite their eventual assimilation, the Manchu maintained a distinct identity, characterized by their unique language, customs, and traditions. Today, the descendants of the Manchu continue to uphold their cultural heritage and identity, contributing to the rich tapestry of ethnic diversity within China. © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing musical credit - Car Hiss By My Window by The Doors from the album L.A. Woman released in 1971 by Elektra Records. logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Jack Moranetz - Printmaker : Evolve Next
02/19/2024
Jack Moranetz - Printmaker : Evolve Next
Embarking on the journey into the world of mokuhanga, each of us starts with a unique desire. It begins with early prints, guided by exploration, and the innate desire to create something—anything—all viewed through the prism of mokuhanga, shaping our voices in this captivating journey. In this episode of the Unfinished Print, I speak with the burgeoning mokuhanga printmaker Jack Moranetz. We discuss how he got involved in the art form, his early prints, his visit to Japan and meeting David Bull, collaborations, and how he approaches his printmaking. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Jack Moranetz - , , Awagami - is arguably the largest paper making company in Japan at the moment. With a large International name, Awagami sponsors, and promotes its paper all over the world. More information can be found on its website, . Dick Blick Art Supplies - is an art supply store with various brick and mortar stores throughout the United States, as well as online. Founded in 1911 by Dick Blick in Galesburg, Illinois, BLICK, as it’s more commonly known, sells various types of art supplies, much like Jerry’s Artarama. More info, . linocut - is a printmaking technique in which a design is carved into a sheet of linoleum with specialized cutting tools. The carved linoleum surface is then inked, and paper is pressed onto it to create a print. Linocut is a relief printing method, similar to woodcut, but it uses linoleum instead of wood as the printing surface. Linocut is popular for its versatility and is used in both fine art and craft applications. Michael's Art Supplies - is a big box art supply store located throughout North America. More info can be found, . brayer - is a roller with a handle used to apply ink to a printing surface. It typically consists of a cylindrical rubber roller attached to a handle. Printmakers use the brayer to evenly distribute ink over the surface of a printing block, such as linoleum or wood, before pressing it onto paper or another substrate. The brayer ensures a smooth and uniform ink coverage, allowing for clear and consistent impressions during the printing process. Artists can control the amount of ink applied by rolling the brayer over an ink slab or palette before transferring it to the printing surface. Brayers are an essential tool in various printmaking techniques, including linocut, woodcut, and monotype. Bender - is a fictional character in the animated television series "Futurama," created by Matt Groening. Bender is a robot with a humanoid appearance and a distinctive metal body. He is known for his irreverent and sarcastic personality, as well as his love for bending girders and other metal objects. He serves as one of the main characters in the series. David Bull - is a Canadian woodblock printmaker, and educator who lives and works in Japan. His love of mokuhanga has almost singlehandedly promoted the art form around the world. His company, Mokuhankan, has a brick and mortar store in Asakusa, Tōkyō, and online, . Chapter 9 - The Seacoast In Winter, from the My Solitudes series (2007) Twitch - is a widely-used live streaming platform, initially focused on video game streaming and e-sports, but later expanding to include diverse content like music and art. Acquired by Amazon in 2014, Twitch allows users to broadcast live video content, interact with viewers through a real-time chat feature, and offers features such as e-motes and subscriptions. Streamers create communities around their content, and viewers can engage by subscribing to channels for exclusive benefits. Twitch has become a prominent platform for live content creation, fostering a sense of community among its users. sumi - is a rich black stick or liquid used by artists, calligraphers, and traditional Japanese horimono tattoo artists. Sumi is made from the soot of burnt lamp oil. Sumi is used predominantly in key blocks in traditional mokuhanga and to mix pigments. Pigment Tōkyō conducts a great interview with their chief of pigments, Kei Iwaizumi, about sumi ink, . shina - is a type of Japanese plywood used in mokuhanga. Not all shina is made equally, buyer beware. McClains Woodblock Print Supply Co. - based in Portland, Oregon, McClain's is the go-to supplier of woodblock print tools in the United States. Their website can be found . The Unfinished Print interview with Daniel Jasa of McClain's can be found . Disk Baren - crafted by Akira Kurosaki (1937-2019), is a plastic baren which features a replaceable disc with small surface bumps that ensure uniform pressure application across the paper during the printing process. murasaki baren - is a mid-range mokuhanga baren. “murasaki” meaning “purple” , come in two types of weight (medium and heavy), and two types of sizes (10cm and 12cm). They are a reasonably priced baren. bokashi - is a mokuhanga technique, where the pigment fades from a heavy colour to a softer, broad colour. Made famous by prints designed by Hokusai and Hiroshige, this technique is, for me, the most popular technique utilized by mokuhanga printmakers. There are various types: Ichimoji-bokashi or straight line graduation, used in the above mentioned Hiroshige and Hokusai prints. Ichimoji-mura-bokashi or straight line gradation with uneven edge. Ō-bokashi or wide gradation, Ate-nashi-bokashi or gradation without definition. Futa-iro-bokashi or two tone gradation, and ita-bokashi or softer-edge gradation, where the block is cut in a specific way to achieve this style of gradation. All of these styles of bokashi technique take practice and skill but are very much doable. Laura Boswell ARE - is a renowned British printmaker recognized for her expertise in linocut and woodblock printing. Her artistic repertoire includes creating intricate and detailed prints inspired by nature, landscapes, and everyday life. Notably, Boswell is known for her adept use of a bold and vibrant color palette in her prints. Beyond her artistic pursuits, she shares her knowledge by teaching printmaking techniques, conducting workshops, and authoring instructional books on the subject. Her commitment to both creating and educating adds depth to her contributions in the field of printmaking. More info can be found on her website, . Her interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Long Grasses up by Westerdale 18"x 7" Kitsune Prints - is a mokuhanga printmaking studio located in Monsano, Italy. More info can be found, . Atelier Sentō - is an art collective located in Biarritz, France. They design images for companies, bookstores, publishers, and mokuhanga. The print that Jack refers to is a print called, The Unseen World: After The Rain, a print published by Shinji Tsuchimochi and the publisher Miyakadori. More info about Atelier Sentō can be found, . The print mentioned can be purchased from Mokuhankan, . 11" x 8" (2021) Karen Pittman - is a mokuhanga printmaker based in Austin, Texas. She continues to make beautiful mokuhanga, and explores the craft through her blog . Karen's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . Katherine's Mora River 9" x 6.75" (2023) Daryl Howard - is a mokuhanga printmaker base in Austin, Texas. She apprenticed with Hodaka Yoshida (1926-1995). Her work has been shown around the world. More information about Daryl can be found, . Daryl's interview with The Unfinished Print can be found, . an eternal teardrop...descending from love 15"x20" (2019) Ocooch Hardwoods - is a wood supplier based in Wisconsin. More info can be found, . Jackson's Art - is a brick and mortar and online art supply store located in London, England founded in 2000. More info can be found, . © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing musical credit - by Mononegatives (2023) logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Hiroki Morinoue - Printmaker: The Philosophy of The Past
02/05/2024
Hiroki Morinoue - Printmaker: The Philosophy of The Past
On this episode I have the pleasure of speaking with Hiroki Morinoue, an artist who resides and creates on the Big Island in Hawai'i. Together, we delve into his personal journey with mokuhanga, reflecting on his experiences at MI Lab, exploring his unique color palette, and gaining insights into his meticulous process in crafting mokuhanga prints. Additionally, we uncover Hiroki’s life in Hawai'i, his ventures, and his relationships with prominent galleries such as Studio 7 Fine Arts, print studio’s like Shark’s Ink, and the arts center at Anderson Ranch. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Print publishers are given if known. Hiroki Morinoue - Pure Water (2001) 18.5"x38.5" High Tide (2012) 22"x30" Earth Cycle (2007) 37.5"x37" MI Lab - is a mokuhanga artists residency located in Kawaguchi-ko, near Mount Fuji. More info can be found, . - is an artist and Professor of Art Emerita at Whitman College in Walla Walla, Washington. She is a painter, and printmaker in various relief mediums, such as mokuhanga. Verse R - black and white (2017) 13"x11" - is a printmaker who focuses on mokuhanga and intaglio printing techniques. She lives and works in Humpty Doo, New Territory, Australia. Kisaragi (2012) 18.9" x 25" pochoir - is a stencilling technique used in printmaking and decorative arts. The term "pochoir" is French for "stencil." In this method, a design is created by cutting or punching holes in a sheet of paper or other material, and then paint or ink is applied through the openings onto a surface below. Pochoir allows for precise and intricate patterns, making it particularly popular in the creation of fine art prints, illustrations, and decorative designs. It has been historically employed in various art movements, including Art Nouveau and Art Deco. More info, . Helen Frankenthaler (1928–2011) was a prominent American abstract expressionist painter known for her role in the Color Field painting movement. Her innovative technique involved staining unprimed canvas with thinned oil paint, creating a distinctive luminous effect. "Mountains and Sea" (1952) is a notable example of her influential work. Frankenthaler's contributions have left a lasting impact on postwar American art. Frankenthaler began to make woodcut prints in 1973 and was influenced by Utagawa Hiroshige (1797–1858). More info about her prints can be found at the Frankenthaler Foundation, . Tale of Genji V (1998) 42"x47" Donkey Mill Art Center - is a community art center located in Holualoa, Hawaii. It serves as a hub for various artistic activities, workshops, and events, fostering creative expression and engagement with the arts. The center often offers classes and programs in a variety of artistic disciplines, including painting, ceramics, printmaking, and more. More info, . Mauna Kea - is the highest peak in the Hawaiian Islands, located on the Big Island. A dormant volcano, it stands at 13,796 feet (4,205 meters) above sea level. The mountain holds cultural significance for Native Hawaiians and is home to unique ecosystems. Mauna Loa - is an active shield volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii, standing at 13,678 feet (4,169 meters) above sea level. It is the Earth's most massive subaerial volcano, known for frequent non-explosive eruptions and its broad, gently sloping shape. The volcano holds scientific and cultural significance and is closely monitored due to its potential impact on nearby communities. Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill - occurred in 2010 in the Gulf of Mexico. It was one of the largest environmental disasters in history. The spill resulted from the explosion of the Deepwater Horizon offshore drilling rig, releasing millions of barrels of oil into the Gulf. The incident had severe ecological and economic consequences, impacting marine life, coastal ecosystems, and local economies along the Gulf Coast. Thai mulberry paper - also known as "saa paper" or "kozo paper," is a traditional handmade paper originating from Thailand. It is crafted from the bark of the mulberry tree, specifically the Broussonetia papyrifera tree. Shark's Ink - established in 1976 as Shark’s Lithography Ltd, the studio has partnered with over 160 distinguished artists from the United States and Europe. These artists, known for their strong personal visions, engage in ongoing collaborations, often returning for multiple projects. The resulting prints, marked by inventive techniques, encompass a wide range of artistic approaches. The studio employs various processes, including lithography, monotype, metal leaf, chine collé, embossing, collage, and innovative methods for woodblocks and relief prints, including three-dimensional lithographs. More info, . nori - is a type of paste made from starch. It is used when making mokuhanga. You can make nori from any type of material made from starch. For instance, paste can be made with tapioca, rice, corn, even potato. You can purchase nori pretty much anywhere but making it is more environmentally friendly. Laura Boswell has a great recipe, . embossing - refers to a technique where the paper is pressed into the carved woodblocks, creating a raised or textured effect on the printed surface. This technique adds a three-dimensional quality to the print by making certain areas of the paper slightly elevated. Gotō Hidehiko (b.1953) - is a mokuhanga printmaker and tool maker based in Japan. He makes and teaches seminars about the construction of the mokuhanga tool, the baren. Window (2011) 15"x12" gomazuri - is a mokuhanga technique where slight pressure is used with pigments too make a “spotty” image, what look like sesame seeds. It can add depth to your prints. Saitō Kiyoshi (1907-1997) - was a Japanese woodblock printmaker and artist who worked in the sōsaku hanga style of mokuhanga. HIs fame outside of Japan was fairly comprehensive with his peak fame being in the 1950’s and 1960’s. For a comprehensive book on his life and times, Saitō Kiyoshi: Graphic Awakening published by The John & Mable Ringling Museum is an excellent source. Can be found, . Lecture by Dr. Paget about Saitō can be found, . My interview with Professor Paget can be found, . Winter in Aizu (1969) 18"x23.5" Richard Notkin - is an American ceramic artist known for his pottery and distinctive style that often incorporates political and social commentary. Notkin has gained recognition for his work in the field of ceramics, particularly his teapots. Meltdown of Reason: Helena MT. (1987) stoneware and porcelain. 10.5"x5.5"x4.5" Mayumi Oda - is a Buddhist teacher and artist based in Hawai’i. Her artwork has gained international recognition, having traveled worldwide. In addition to her artistic pursuits, Mayumi is an environmental activist and resides and works at Ginger Hill Farm, an eco-retreat on the Big Island of Hawai’i. Explore more about Mayumi Oda’s work, . Hands of Compassion (1986) screen print 37"x25" Andrew Wyeth (1917-2009) - was a renowned American realist painter, known for his detailed and emotive depictions of the rural American landscape. Born in Pennsylvania, he spent much of his life capturing the subtleties of nature, particularly in the Brandywine Valley and coastal Maine. Christina's World (1948) 32 1/4 x 47 3/4" © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing musical credit - The September Of My Years (1965) from the album The September Of My Years released on Reprise Records. logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Henry Smith PhD - Physical Chemistry
01/28/2024
Henry Smith PhD - Physical Chemistry
In this episode of The Unfinished Print, I speak with Henry Smith, Professor Emeritus in the Dept. of East Asian Languages & Cultures at Columbia University. Together we delve into the scientific aspects of Meiji woodblock prints, exploring the trajectory of Nishiki-e during the late Edo and Meiji eras. Additionally, we examine the significance of cochineal and naphthol dyes, and scrutinize particle sizes. Henry's scholarly contributions include groundbreaking articles on subjects such as Hokusai and the Blue Revolution, with the introduction of Prussian Blue to the Japanese woodblock aesthetic during the mid to late Edo Period. Join me in discovering how Henry's passion drew him into the enchanting world of Meiji woodblock prints, as we navigate the influence of Western collectors in Meiji Japan, exemplified by figures like English s urgeon William Anderson. Henry helps me in understanding the rich palette and the science behind Meiji prints, shaped by the infusion of imported dyes and pigments. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Publishers are given if known. The funeral procession of Meiji Emperor at Nijubashi designed by Yasuda Hanpo (1889-1947) Professor Henry Smith's article on the Japanese Student movement, . Peter Gluck - is an American architect who has won multiple awards and has designed buildings all over the world. He is the principal of GLUCK+, an architecture firm based in New York City. Professor Carol Gluck - is a Special Research Scholar and George Sansom Professor Emerita of History, Department of History at Columbia University. She has written multiple books and articles on Japanese history. Jane Jacobs (1916-2006) - an American-Canadian journalist, activist who had written extensively on the life and death of North American cities such as New York City, and Toronto. Her book The Death And Life Of Great American Cities, is considered a classic in urban planning for the modern city and its subsequent decline. Robert Venturi (1925-2018) - was an American architect and theorist known for his contributions to postmodern architecture. He, along with his partner and wife Denise Scott Brown, played a key role in shaping architectural discourse in the late 20th century. Venturi challenged the modernist principles that dominated architecture at the time, advocating for a more inclusive and eclectic approach. His book, Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture (1966) was where he critiqued the rigidity of modernist architecture and championed a more diverse and contextual approach to architecture. Metabolism (Japan) - The Metabolism movement was characterized by a group of young Japanese architects and designers who sought to address the challenges of rapid urbanization and rebuilding after World War II. Key principles and concepts of Metabolism in Japanese architecture are megastructures, prefabrication and modularity, biology and organic growth, and technological innovation. One special notable example of Metabolist architecture was the now demolished Kisho Kurokawa's Nakagin Capsule Tower in Tōkyō. Shinjuku: The Phenomenal City - was the exhibition Henry Smith discussed in this episode. It was exhibited December 16, 1975 to March 7, 1976 at the Museum of Modern Art, New York City. More info, . a+u magazine - also known as architecture and urbanism magazine, is a Japanese/English architecture magazine first published in 1971. More info, . Kōji Taki (1928-2011) - was a Japanese author, architectural critic, editor, and key figure in the Metabolist movement. He played a significant role in shaping the discourse of contemporary architecture in Japan and was instrumental in promoting the ideas of the Metabolists. Kappabashi - located in Tōkyō's Asakusa district, is a renowned destination for kitchenware and restaurant supplies. The street is lined with stores offering a diverse range of products, including traditional Japanese knives, sushi-making equipment, and unique culinary gadgets. Kappabashi is especially popular for its sampuru shops, where visitors can buy realistic food replicas commonly displayed outside restaurants. The area features a mix of large retailers and specialty stores, creating a charming atmosphere with its traditional Japanese architecture. It's easily accessible from Tawaramachi Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line. fūkei hanga - are landscape images. These paintings and prints represent the natural world such as mountains, rivers, waterfalls. You can find these types of prints from the golden age of nishiki-e to shin-hanga, to today. Sunset at Tomonotsu (1940, 9"x14") by Tsuchiya Koitsu (1879-1942) and published by Watanabe. Mitaka - is a city located in the western part of Tōkyō, Japan. A very pretty and quiet part of the city it is famous for the Ghibli Museum, and Inokashira Park. 100 Views of Edo (名所江戸百景) - is a series of nishiki-e prints designed by Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858). It was published between 1856 and 1859 and consists of 118 or 119 prints, each depicting various scenes of Edo (Tōkyō). The prints show the beauty, diversity, and everyday life of Edo, capturing different seasons, landscapes, landmarks, and activities. Hiroshige's use of color, composition, and atmospheric effects contributes to the series' enduring popularity. The scenes range from bustling urban areas and landscapes to rural views, often incorporating elements of nature and traditional Japanese culture. Suruga-chō (1885) Thirty Six Views of Mount Fuji - one of Hokusai's most iconic series, known for its various depictions of Mount Fuji in different seasons, weather conditions, and different vantage points. The series includes "The Great Wave off Kanagawa." Published between 1830-1832 the series portrays Mount Fuji in different perspectives, everyday life, as well as the special importance of Mount Fuji in Edo culture. The series had a large impact on Western artists and thinkers, including the Impressionists and Post-Impressionists. Umezawa Hamlet-fields in Sagami Province (1830-31) Santa Barbara Museum of Art - is an art museum located in Santa Barbara, California, USA. Its collection contains art works from all over the world, focusing on paintings, sculpture, and paper works. More info, . Kobayashi Kiyochika (1847-1915) - was a painter and woodblock print designer famous for his war prints on the First Sino-Japanese War (July 25, 1894- April 17, 1895). Kiyochika captured the transitional period in Japanese history as the country underwent rapid modernization and Westernization during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Onoguchi Tokuji Destroying The Gate at Jinzhoucheng (1895 14 3/4" x 28 9/16") published by Daikokuya. Utagawa School - was a school of print designers starting with Utagawa Toyoharu (1735-1814). He employed one point perspective (vanishing point) in his print designs, being influenced by Western perspective. The influence of the Utagawa school goes far in Japanese print history and one of its most successful. This schools print designs of kabuki portraits, beautiful women (bijin-ga), and landscapes are excellent. Some famous names attributed to the Utagawa school are Utamaro (1753-1806), Utagawa Kunisada (1786-1865), and Ando Hiroshige (1797-1858). A fine description of this school can be found, at Artelino. Newly Published Picture of the Battle of Jiuzan-shan in China (9 3/16" x 13 1/8") attributed to Utagawa Toyoharu Okumura Masanobu (1686-1784) - was a Japanese nishiki-e artist and print designer who lived during the Edo period. He is credited with pioneering the use of full-color printing and is considered one of the early masters of the art form. Okumura Masanobu was known for his contributions to bijin-ga and yakusha-e (actor prints). He played a role in the development of nishiki-e as a popular art form. More information can be found at Viewing Japanese Prints, . Large Perspective Picture of Evening Cool by Ryōgoku Bridge (ca. 1748) hand coloured Sumida River - is a major river that flows through Tōkyō, Japan. It plays a significant role in the history, culture, and landscape of the city. The Sumida River flows for approximately 27 kilometers (about 17 miles) through Tokyo, originating from Kita City and flowing into Tōkyō Bay. It passes through several wards, including Kita, Adachi, Sumida, Taito, Koto, and Chuo. The river has been portrayed in nishiki-e prints for generations, along with its bridges. Kobayashi Kiyochika the Sumida River at Night (9.76"x14" - est. 1881) Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798-1861) - is considered one of the last “masters” of the ukiyo-e genre of Japanese woodblock printmaking. His designs range from landscapes, samurai and Chinese military heroes, as well as using various formats for his designs such as diptychs and triptychs. Yamayoshi Genba no jō Chikafusa (14 5/16" x 9 15/16" - 1848/49) published by Sumiyoshiya Ike no Taiga (1723-1776) - was a Japanese painter of the mid-Edo period, known for his skill in the Nanga style, which was influenced by Chinese literati painting. He is best remembered for his role in promoting a cross-cultural exchange of ideas between Japan and China in the realm of art and aesthetics during the Edo Period. Landscape with Pavilion (1750) Akita ranga painting - a style of Japanese painting that emerged in the late Edo period, particularly during the 19th century, in the region of Akita in northern Japan. The term "ranga" literally translates to "Dutch painting" and reflects the influence of European painting styles, particularly Dutch and Western techniques, which were introduced to Japan through trade with the Dutch during the Edo Period. More info, . Satake Shozan (1748-1785) - Pine Tree and Parakeet (68.11" x 22.83") est 1700's, painting. Shinobazu Pond - is a large pond located within Ueno Park in Tōkyō, Japan. Ueno Park is a spacious public park that is home to several museums, a zoo, temples, and beautiful green spaces. Shinobazu Pond is one of the central features of Ueno Park, and it is renowned for its scenic beauty and historical significance. hanmoto system - is the Edo Period (1603-1868) collaboration system of making woodblock prints in Japan. The system was about using, carvers, printers, and craftsmen by various print publishers in order to produce woodblock prints. The system consisted of the following professions; publisher, artist, carver, and printer. William Anderson (1842–1900) was an English surgeon and collector with a significant impact on the appreciation and understanding of Japanese art in the late 19th century. Anderson became a passionate collector of Japanese art, amassing a vast and diverse collection that included nishiki-e, ceramics, textiles, and other traditional artworks. His collection grew to be one of the most significant and comprehensive of its time. His bequest laid the foundation for the development of Japanese art studies in the West, influencing subsequent generations of scholars, collectors, and enthusiasts. ezōshiya - is a type of Japanese bookstore that specializes in selling "ehon" or picture books. Ehon are valued not only for their storytelling but also for the quality of illustrations. These books played a role in promoting visual literacy and appreciation of art in Japan. Nishiki-e had been sold at these book stores during the Edo Period. Utagawa Kunisada (1786-1865) is widely regarded as one of the most significant woodblock print designers in Japanese history. His diverse portfolio includes prints ranging from landscapes and books to erotica and sumo. Kunisada worked during the vibrant era of nishiki-e alongside notable artists such as Andō Hiroshige (1797-1858), Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849), and the aforementioned Kuniyoshi. This period represents a rich and abundant chapter in Japanese woodblock print history. Ichikawa Danjurō VIII as Hanzaemon published by Tamaya Sōsuke (1852) 13 9/16" x 9 3/16" cochineal - known as yōko in Japanese, is a red dye taken from the dried bodies of female cochineal insects. These insects are native to Central and South America, where they feed on the sap of prickly pear cacti. Cochineal has been used for centuries as a natural dye, valued for its vibrant red color. An article about synthetic pigments and cochineal in Japanese woodblock prints and co-written by Henry Smith can be found, . William Sturgis Bigelow (1850-1926) - was an avid collector of Japanese art. His extensive travels to Japan from 1882 to 1889, coupled with a close friendship with Ernest Fenollosa, enabled him to amass a remarkable collection. Bigelow's acquisitions played a pivotal role in promoting Japanese art in the Western world. World Of The Meiji Print - is a book published by Weatherhill in 1991 and written by Julia Meech-Pekarik. It describes how nishiki-e developed and evolved during the Meiji period. Roger Keyes (1942-2020) - was a distinguished scholar of Japanese woodblock prints. His expertise was showcased in his 1982 dissertation, a comprehensive study of Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892). Additionally, Keyes authored the book 'Ehon: The Artists and the Book in Japan' in 2006, further solidifying his significant contributions to the understanding of Japanese printmaking. Amy Reigle Newland - is a Japanese print scholar who has written various articles and books upon the subject. One of my favourite books by Newland is her book about Toyohara Kunichika, Time Present and Past: Images of A Forgotten Master (1999). Bruce Coats - is Professor of Art History and the Humanities at Scripps College, Claremont, California. He has contributed to several books on Japanese woodblock prints, one of my favourites is Chikanobu: Modernity and Nostalgia in Japanese Prints (2006). James A Michener (1907-1997) - was a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer, scholar, and esteemed academic known for his extensive contributions to various literary genres. Beyond his celebrated literary achievements, Michener also delved into the world of Japanese prints, demonstrating a multifaceted curiosity and intellectual versatility. His exploration of Japanese prints added another layer to his diverse body of work, reflecting a deep appreciation for Japanese art and culture. Honolulu Academy of Arts - founded in 1922 by Anna Rice Cooke, evolved into the Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA) in 2012. Rice-Cooke's vision for a multicultural art space led to its creation, with an endowment and land donated by the Cooke family. The museum's architectural style blends Hawaiian, Chinese, and Spanish influences. Over the years, HoMA expanded, adding educational wings, a cafe, and more, while its permanent collection grew to over 50,000 pieces. In 2011, The Contemporary Museum merged with HoMA, unifying as the Honolulu Museum of Art. More info, . shinbun nishiki-e - the Meiji Restoration of 1868 marked a pivotal moment in Japan's history, prompting significant societal upheavals. Tōkyō, formerly Edo, became the new centre of Imperial Japan, and by 1871, the traditional feudal class system had been abolished, accompanied by compulsory education laws. This era of profound change spurred creative responses to economic challenges. Starting in the summer of 1874, innovative individuals introduced shimbun nishikie, vibrant single-sheet woodblock prints that served as colorful souvenirs. These prints, produced until 1876, were not just visually striking but also narratively engaging, recounting news articles in a format ideal for oral storytelling. Renowned artists like Ochiai Yoshiiku and Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, both students of the celebrated Utagawa Kuniyoshi, played a key role in illustrating these captivating snapshots of an evolving Japan. An excellent article on shinbun nishiki-e can be found , from All About Japan. Fighting Off A Wolf by Sadanobu II (1848-1940) from the Nichinichi Shinbun (9 1/2" x 6 3/4") Satsuma Rebellion - occurring in 1877, was a last stand against the modernization policies of the Meiji government by disaffected samurai from the Satsuma domain. Led by Saigō Takamori (1828-1877), a key figure in the Meiji Restoration. The rebellion sought to restore imperial power and resist the centralization efforts of the government. The conflict ended in a decisive government victory at the Battle of Shiroyama, where Saigō met his end, marking one of the final samurai-led uprisings in Japan's history. Suzuki Harunobu (1725-1770) -pioneered the art of nishiki-e, becoming the first to craft multi-color woodblock prints. Renowned for his exquisite designs, Harunobu's subjects often revolved around the portrayal of beautiful women, shunga (erotic art), and classical poetry. His innovative techniques and thematic choices significantly influenced the genre during the Edo period in Japan. Lovers Walking In The Snow (1764-1772) (11 1/4"x8 1/8") Emperor Meiji born Mutsuhito (1852 – 1912), was the 122nd Emperor of Japan, reigning from 1867 until his death in 1912. His reign, known as the Meiji Era, marked a transformative period in Japanese history. The Meiji Restoration of 1868 saw the end of the Tokugawa shogunate and the restoration of imperial rule, with Emperor Meiji playing a central role in Japan's modernization and westernization efforts. During his era, Japan underwent significant political, social, and economic reforms, propelling the country into the ranks of major world powers. Emperor Meiji's reign is often associated with Japan's rapid modernization and emergence onto the global stage. sōsaku-hanga - also known as creative prints, is a printmaking style primarily, though not exclusively, characterized by prints created by a single artist. Originating in early twentieth-century Japan, alongside the shin-hanga movement, this style emphasizes the artist's direct involvement in the entire printmaking process — from design and carving to printing. While the designs, especially in the early stages, may appear rudimentary, the concept of artists producing their own prints marked a significant departure from the traditional model where a select group of carvers, printers, and publishers collaborated in the creation of woodblock prints. shin hanga - is a style of Japanese woodblock printmaking that emerged in the early 20th century, marking the end of the nishiki-e period. Originating around 1915 under the direction of Watanabe Shōzaburō (1885-1962), the art form responded to the foreign demand for "traditional" Japanese imagery. Shin hanga artists focused on motifs like castles, bridges, famous landscapes, and bamboo forests. The style was initiated when Watanabe discovered Austrian artist Fritz Capelari (1884-1950) and commissioned him to design prints for Watanabe's budding printing house. This collaboration led to the evolution of shin hanga into a distinctive new style of Japanese woodblock printing. The shin hanga movement thrived until its inevitable decline after the Second World War (1939-1945). fan print (uchiwa-e) - are crafted in the form of flat, oval fans using materials such as rice paper or silk. These prints are designed to be functional fans, allowing for practical use while showcasing artistic designs. Amy Poster - is the curator emerita of Asian Art at the Brooklyn Museum. aizuri-e - are woodblock prints made entirely with shades of blue. This style gained popularity during the Edo Period. ...
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Tuula Moilanen - Printmaker : Life Is An Experiment
12/26/2023
Tuula Moilanen - Printmaker : Life Is An Experiment
When it comes to the idea of longevity, my guest on this episode of The Unfinished Print has just that: the hard work and sacrifice to make a career in making mokuhanga, bringing the art form to people worldwide. Today I speak with mokuhanga printmaker, graphic designer, and writer, Tuula Moilanen. Currently living in Finland, Tuula has made mokuhanga for almost 40 years and has been an essential part of the worldwide mokuhanga community, teaching, instructing and overseeing the art form’s growth. Tuula speaks about her twenty years in Japan, her teachers, and how she views her mokuhanga. We discuss creating work, social media, and the philosophy of art. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note if available. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Publishers are given if known. Tuula Moilanen - Tetsuya Noda -is a respected printmaker and artist who works with photography, mokuhanga, and serigraphy (silkscreen). Was head of the printmaking department at the National Fine Arts and Music University in Tōkyō until 2006. More info can be found . Diary: Nov. 7th ‘68 (#1) 31 15/16" × 31" (1963-1976) Akira Kurosaki 黒崎彰 (1937-2019) - was one of the most influential woodblock print artists of the modern era. His work, while seemingly abstract, moved people with its vibrant colour and powerful composition. He was a teacher and invented the “,” which is a great baren to begin your mokuhanga journey with. At the 2021 Mokuhanga Conference in Nara, Japan there was a tribute exhibit of his . Azusa Gallery has a nice selection of his work, . Meeting of Comets (1980) 5.7"x 3.9" Kyoto Seika University - is a private university based in Kyōto, Japan. It is a university focused on art and scholarship. More info, . nagashizuki - is a style of paper making in Japan. This way of making paper creates a strong, translucent paper good for multiple uses. For a more detailed analysis of creating this type of washi check out Awagami's description, . shodo -is the name attributed to calligraphy in the Japanese style, which involves writing characters using a brush and ink. mokulito - a type of lithography which incorporated woodblock. Artist Danielle Creenaune uses mokulito in her work. She has a fine detailed explanation on its uses, . shina - is a type of Japanese plywood used in mokuhanga. Not all shina is made equally, buyer beware. Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798-1861) - is considered one of the last “masters” of the ukiyo-e genre of Japanese woodblock printmaking. His designs range from landscapes, samurai and Chinese military heroes, as well as using various formats for his designs such as diptychs and triptychs. Taira Kiyomori from the series Meiko hyaku yuden 名高百勇傳 published by Izumiya Ichibei Keizo Sato - is a mokuhanga printmaker who owns and operates a shop in Kyoto making reproductions of ukiyo-e prints. He has demonstrated at the International Mokuhanga Conference, in 2011. Has been associated with the takuhon - is a style of printmaking one in which the pigments are rubbed into the washi with a type of pad. Printmaking At Newcastle University on YouTube has a fine video about the process, . hyōgu - is a traditional Japanese process of mounting calligraphy and paper works such as paintings. intaglio printing - is a printing method, also called etching, using metal plates such as zinc, and copper, creating “recessed” areas which are printed with ink on the surface of these "recesses.” More info, . The MET has info, . European woodcuts - woodcuts began in Europe in 1400; the woodcut/woodblock tradition has long been in Western Europe. These prints gained prominence during the late Middle Ages (500-14/1500 AD) and the Renaissance (14th Century - 17th Century AD), spreading visual information from religious iconography to political propaganda. Some famous artists we know today are Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528) and Titian (? - 1576). © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing musical credit - Put It Down by Otis McDonald, John Patittuci, and Mike Chiavarro, from their single Put It Down released on TrackTribe (2023) logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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Hellory - Printmaker: Each Line Will Have Its Own Life
11/30/2023
Hellory - Printmaker: Each Line Will Have Its Own Life
It’s been said before, yet I feel it’s worth repeating that when making mokuhanga, you don’t make it alone. So many people influence us that it may be difficult to pinpoint who or what impacts our creative lives the most. In this episode of the Unfinished Print I speak with mokuhanga printmaker Hellory. Based in Italy, Hellory makes multi-colour mokuhanga with luxury techniques. She learned these techniques from her mentor, Giovanni Berio Ligustro. We discuss the intertwined artistic lives of Hellory and Ligustro. What learning from a mentor was like, what studying and assisting her teacher did for her work, and Hellory shares with me how she creates her mokuhanga using deluxe techniques such as gold leaf, mica, embossing, glassing and more. Please follow The Unfinished Print and my own mokuhanga work on Instagram or email me at Notes: may contain a hyperlink. Simply click on the highlighted word or phrase. Artists works follow after the note. Pieces are mokuhanga unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are given if known. Hellory - Giovanni Berio Ligustro (1924-2015) - © Popular Wheat Productions opening and closing musical credit - Bobcaygeon by The Tragically Hip. Released on their Phantom Power album in 1998 on Universal Records. logo designed and produced by and André Zadorozny Disclaimer: Please do not reproduce or use anything from this podcast without shooting me an email and getting my express written or verbal consent. I'm friendly :) Слава Українi If you find any issue with something in the show notes please let me know. ***The opinions expressed by guests in The Unfinished Print podcast are not necessarily those of André Zadorozny and of Popular Wheat Productions.***
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