While it includes some information about professional practice in Japan, it is written with the belief that this flexible technique can be adapted for use by individual artist-printmakers.
The Purpose of this Book This book was conceived as an introduction to the basics of mokuhanga for creative artists outside Japan. At once practical and inspirational, this handbook is as useful to serious printmakers and artists as it is to creative people drawn to Japanese history and aesthetics. In this comprehensive guide, artist and printmaker April Vollmer-one of the best known mokuhanga practitioners and instructors in the West-combines her deep knowledge of this historic printmaking practice with expert step-by-step instruction, guidance on materials and studio practices, and a diverse collection of prints by leading contemporary artists. A Modern Guide to the Ancient Art of mokuhanga An increasingly popular yet age-old art form, Japanese woodblock printing ( mokuhanga ) is embraced for its non-toxic character, use of handmade materials, and easy integration with other printmaking techniques. An inspirational how-to course on Japanese woodblock printing's history and techniques, with guidance on materials and studio practices, step-by-step demonstrations, and examples of finished works by modern masters of the medium as well as historic pieces.