Workshop

A-Z Workshop autumn 2024

Dates: 16 & 17 november + 1 december 2024
Time: 9:30 - 16:30
Location: Atelier Vrije Grafiek, Offerlaan 3, 9000 Gent

What you learn

Mokuhanga is perfect for anyone interested in non-toxic printmaking that can be done at home without any complicated accommodation. In this three-day workshop you will see and learn how a traditional Japanese woodblock print is made, but also take your first steps in this wonderful technique. After a demonstration of the cutting and the printing process, you will be encouraged to work actively. Thanks to this comprehensive workshop, you will learn the whole process of making a Japanese woodblock print from A to Z. At the end you will go home with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art of Japanese woodcut, along with a love for both the process and the results of this accessible and marvelous printmaking method!

This workshop is designed for both beginners and those who already have some experience in art making or Japanese woodcut. So, no need to be a talented or achieved artist to put your hands on this fascinating medium!

The first two days you will learn how to separate a two-colored drawing or image into layers, how to transfer them onto Japanese plywood thanks to the simple and brilliant kento system, how to cut the blocks using a knife and gouges and how to prepare paper for printing.
You start carving in the workshop and continue so at home for two weeks. The day before you come back you prepare your paper at home. The third day you return for a demo printing and afterwards you print yourself your own carved blocks! We finish the workshop on how to clean and maintain your materials. You will learn how to prepare your printing paper and ink. You will print on Japanese paper.

Practical

This workshop is spread over 3 days of 7 hours, lunch time and breaks included.

The workshop fee includes the following:

2 wood blocks
papers to transfer paper and print
sandpaper
carving kits you can borrow for working at home between day 2 and 3
glue and other basic printing materials

There will be plenty of cutting and printing materials available, but feel free to bring your own carving materials.

You will receive an email with all practical information and materials at least one week in advance.

Food and drink?

Water, coffee and tea will be provided. Bring your own lunch, we have a microwave and fridge for you to use. There is a supermarket nearby.

Accessibility

The workshop location can easily be reached by public transport or bike. Nearby is Sint-Pietersstation and several parking options at a reasonable parking rate.

Participation

The workshop is fully booked, please have a look at our workshops in 2025 if you’re interested: