Advanced Japanese Woodblock Masterclass

Mokuhanga

Mokuhanga is a traditional Japanese woodblock printing technique used for producing artworks, particularly prints. The term “mokuhanga” translates to “wood print” or “woodblock print.” This method involves carving an image into a wooden block, applying water-based pigments or inks to the surface, and then pressing paper onto the inked block to create the print. Mokuhanga is renowned for its vibrant colours, fine detail, and craftsmanship, and it has been used historically for both artistic prints and illustrations. It remains a respected art form in Japan and has influenced global printmaking practices.

Mokuhanga’s introduction to Europe dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, during the period when Japonism—a fascination with Japanese art and culture—began influencing Western artists. European artists, especially Impressionists and Post-Impressionists, admired the aesthetics of Japanese woodblock prints, such as their use of bold lines, flat areas of color, and unusual compositions.

This interest led to the exchange of techniques and ideas, and some European artists experimented with mokuhanga methods. While traditional Japanese mokuhanga remained primarily an Asian practice, the influence sparked interest in the West, inspiring movements like Japonism and contributing to the development of modern printmaking.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest among artists and printmakers worldwide in mokuhanga techniques, often blending traditional methods with contemporary art. Workshops, exhibitions, and collaborations help preserve and promote mokuhanga’s legacy outside Japan.

Workshop Description

During this session you will learn to print and have more control over such techniques as bokashi and it’s many variations, gomazuri (sesame effect), betazuri (flat colour), mokumezuri (woodgrain), barensujizuri (baren marks), karazuri (emboss), kirazuri (printing with mica) and shomenzuri (front printing).

We will cover pure pigments for more intense colour impressions.

This course is suitable for experienced printmakers who want to feel more confident while executing their mokuhanga designs.

Materials

It is required to bring your own carved woodblocks.

Printing materials such as brushes, barens and pigments will be provided.

Make of Washi used: Pansion and Hosho.

Tutor

Inga Eicaite (Lithuanian, based in London) is a contemporary printmaker through abstract graphic approach exploring the dynamic intersection between science and nature. Her works are primarily in a monochromatic palette. This deliberate choice allows her to emphasise the contrast between light and shadow, form and void. Inga puts strong emphasis on paper and its qualities in her practice, usage of conservational washi (Japanese paper) and hanji (Korean) papers help bring subtlety in the work.

Working in several printmaking combos: mokuhanga, intaglio and relief + paper based objects. Her mokuhanga practise started at Morley College with tutor Carol Wilhide Justin ARE in 2019. Following awards with Mi-Lab artist in residency Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi 2022 & Echizen, Fukui 2024. Learning advanced carving and printing under mokuhanga tutors – Toshio Soyama, Goto Hidehiko, Chihiro Taki, Asuka Tsutsumi.

ELP member since 2023.

She exhibits widely, including at the Richard F.Brush Art Gallery New York, at 3331 Arts Chiyoda Tokyo, Awagami Tokushima, RA and WCPF London, RWA Bristol.