Mokuhanga Winter Retreat

Coronavirus Update: This course will be running with reduced numbers and new social distancing, hygiene and safety measures in place [as of 6th May].

During this immersive three-day workshop you will be introduced to the traditional Japanese art of woodblock printing.

Mokuhanga is perfect for anyone interested in a non-toxic, water-based, table-top printmaking technique. Over the course of the three days you will learn the skills to transfer an image to Japanese plywood and carve various colour separation blocks in relief, following in the tradition of Japanese Ukiyo-e printing.

With no mechanical press required, only a hand held 'baren', you will learn the techniques to achieve various print effects, from 'goma zuri' (sesame printing) to 'bokashi' (gradation printing), while registering your multi-block image through the simple but brilliant traditional 'kento' registration system.

You will be sure to fall in love with both the process and results of this accessible, mediative, water-based printmaking method which provides endless possibilities.

Course structure

On day one of the course you will be introduced to the tools and process of mokuhanga through demonstrations and examples, followed by the opportunity to practice using the specialist carving tools on Japanese 'shina' ply wood. You will see a short printing demonstration to see the potential of the medium. You will then plan a simple 3 or 4 colour separation print and transfer your drawing to separate woodblocks ready to begin carving the printed areas using the 'kento' registration system. 

On day two you will spend your time carefully carving and clearing your woodblocks in preparation for printing the following day. You will see a paper dampening demonstration and be expected to make your own damp pack in the afternoon and have your 'washi' paper cut and prepared in readiness for printing on Monday.

On the final day of the course, you will be shown a more in-depth printing demonstration using watercolour and 'nori' rice glue and spend your time experimenting with producing various print effects on your woodblocks, from flat colour, to sesame printing and colour gradations. You can expect to leave the course with a variety of samples of printing techniques and a small edition of A5 multi-block prints on Japanese paper, with the skills and confidence to continue carving and printing at home.

About the Tutor 

Lucy May Schofield studied Japanese printmaking and paper making techniques whilst living in Japan for 2 years. She regularly returns to Japan to exhibit and attend residencies, last year completing the upper advanced training programme at the Mokuhanga Innovation Laboratory near Mt.Fuji. 

Lucy has taught book arts and printmaking nationally for over 12 years and regularly runs introductory workshops as well as masterclasses. She makes books and prints, exhibiting her work internationally. Her work is held in public and private collections from the Tate to Yale Centre for British Art. She is currently based in rural Northumberland.

Leicester Print Workshop 

Leicester Print Workshop is the regional development centre for printmaking. Established by artists in 1986, we are a registered charity, supported by Arts Council England. Our RIBA award-winning building is situated in Leicester City Centre's Cultural Quarter and is home to a large, well equipped open access Printmaking Studio.

We have over 30 years’ experience of teaching people printmaking. Our programme offers the largest number and broadest range of printmaking courses in the region, with courses suitable for beginners as well as experienced printmakers, delivered by practicing artists and nationally renowned tutors. Participants learn in small and friendly groups in our purpose-designed studio.

Bookings

Online: You can book online here by credit / debit card or Paypal.

Telephone: You can pay by card over the phone during our opening hours (Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm). Call us on 0116 251 4174.

In person: Call in to Leicester Print Workshop during our opening hours (Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm) to book and pay by card, cash or cheque.

Pre-course information: We will send you details of how to find us and what to bring with you when we process your booking. 

Concessions

Full-Print Members of Leicester Print Workshop are entitled to a 10% discount on our inhouse courses. Interested in joining LPW as a member? Click here for more information.