A contemporary take on the centuries old process of Japanese woodblock printing, this course uses traditional tools to create modern masterpieces. Inspired by the semi-abstract modernist tradition of St Ives, practitioner Adrian Holmes teaches you to compose, carve and print your own designs using authentic Japanese tools and paper.
Practitioner Adrian Holmes gives you an insight into his extensive knowledge of the woodblock printing tradition. Having lived and practiced woodblock printing in Japan for many years, he journeys there each year to continue his personal study of the art and the sosaku hanga movement that emerged in the 20th Century, around the same time as British modernism was taking off.
Translated literally as ‘creative prints’, sosaku hanga emphasises the artist’s need for autonomous self-expression in the drawing, carving and designing of prints. This remains a major appeal of woodblock printing today: it’s an independent printing process that you can do at home, without a press and using completely sustainable materials.
This course offers a contemporary take on woodblock with traditional methods and tools that have been used in Japan for centuries. Exploration will include a trip to the Barbara Hepworth Gardens and its simple and shapely sculptures inspired the rocks and lines of the Cornish coast.
Learn to extract modern ideas from your surroundings and simplify them into semi-abstract designs – knowledge you can use in any creative endeavour. Enjoy the satisfying process of carving your designs into soft poplar ply and hone your compositional skills creating clean prints with a precise and professional finish.
This is a wonderfully unique opportunity to engage with traditions from both Japan and St Ives to produce ethereal, experimental prints.
Course Information
Tutor: Adrian Holmes
Experience: Any
What to bring: We provide you with ALL the materials you need for your course, however, if you have a favourite set of brushes or any specialist materials that you would like to use, please bring them with you.
It may also be useful to bring a plastic folder or portfolio to transport your work home (although we have these available to buy from £3.50). If your course involves working outside we would recommend you bring warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy walking shoes or boots.
Timings and Breaks: The first day starts at 10 am and finishes at 4.30 pm. Please arrive ten minutes before the start time and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee before we start.
All course days after that start at 9.30 am and finish at 4 pm and there will be an hour for lunch. Occasionally these times may be changed if required by the tutor. There are plenty of nearby places to eat or you are welcome to bring a packed lunch into the studio.
Fee: £285