Japanese Woodblock Printing Feature of VAC Workshop

Woodblock painting will be the feature of the Volcano Art Center’s Aug. 27 workshop.

The traditional woodblock painting is a relief printing technique that differs from the western woodblock. Mokuhanga, or Japanese woodblock painting, is water-based printing that uses sumi ink, watercolor, and nori, steering clear of toxic solvents. Rather than using a press, Mokuhanga uses a handheld baren and provides the accurate “kento” registration method, cut right into the block. The printing uses both traditional processes and new printing technologies.

Sensei Glenn Yamanoha will teach a four-day workshop, called Introduction to Mokuhanga: Traditional Japanese Woodblock Printmaking. He will teach basic processes in a hands-on learning environment. Fundamentals, including cutting with chisels, preparing blocks and paper, registration, and printing with a baren will all be covered in the course.

Yamanoha studied woodblock painting in Kyoto, Japan and now lives in Volcano Village and runs Volcano Gravel.

The workshop will begin on Thursday, Aug. 27 for four consecutive weeks. Each Thursday, the workshop will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Experience is not necessary for the introductory workshop.

Course fee is $70 for the general public and $63 for VAC members. Supplies will be included for the first workshop. Workshop participants will bring their supplies for the subsequent workshops.

To register or to learn more, visit the VAC website or call 967-8222.