Mokuhanga: Traditional Japanese Woodblock Printmaking

The iconic image of the ‘Great Wave’ by Hokusai or Hiroshige’s landscapes are examples of “Mokuhanga”, the term used to describe traditional Japanese woodblock printmaking. This relief printing technique differs from western woodcut methods in that an image is carved onto a piece of wood and water-based sumi ink, watercolor and nori (rice paste) are used to create the print. No toxic solvents or heavy metal press are used. Ink is applied with brushes and a simple printing pad is used to transfer the ink into the fibers of a dampened sheet of washi (Japanese hand-made paper).

You can learn how to make your own classic image with Glenn Yamanoha in the “Mokuhanga: Traditional Japanese Woodblock Printmaking.” This workshop series will consist of four sessions at Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village on Saturdays, November 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd, from 10am – 12:30pm.

Instructor Yamanoha will introduce the basic processes. Attendees will learn the fundamental techniques of Mokuhanga such as cutting with chisels, preparing blocks and paper, registration and printing with a baren (printing pad) in addition to design and aesthetic considerations. The cost is $150/$130 for VAC Members plus a $40 fee, inclusive of supplies. No experience is necessary for this workshop. To register or for more information please contact Volcano Art Center at 808-967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

Glenn Yamanoha is an established painter and printmaker residing in Volcano. He has a degree in painting from the University of Washington in Seattle, studied graphic design at Seattle Art Institute and has many years of experience teaching design, drawing and painting on the college level. As a Monbusho (Japan Government) scholar, he studied Mokuhanga in Kyoto, Japan and teaches regularly at many venues on the Big Island.