How I came to Mokuhanga: Japan’s Traditional Woodblock Printing

My fascination with Mokuhanga began when I first encountered its delicate beauty and intricate craftsmanship. I was captivated by the way artists blend traditional techniques with vibrant colors, creating images that feel alive and deeply rooted in Japanese culture. As I learned about the history, the patience required for carving, and the artistry behind each print, I developed a profound appreciation for this centuries-old craft. Exploring Mokuhanga has become a journey of discovering beauty through precision, tradition, and connection to nature—an art form that continually inspires me with its timeless elegance and meticulous craftsmanship. After several years of self study and YouTube videos I was lucky enough to secure a residency with well know Mokuhanga Artist and Teacher, Terry McKenna at his Karuizawa Mokuhanga School. I have prepared a YouTube film about it. After printing using collagraph techniques for the last fifteen years, the next fifteen will be in Mokuhanga. I have been inspired by the following Mokuhanga Artists: April Vollmer, Terry McKenna, Kiyoshi Saitō, Shikō Munakata and Kenji Takenaka. You do not have to be an aficionado of Mokuhanga Japanese Woodblock printing to recognise "Under a Wave off Kanagawa" by Hiroshige, often known simply as “The Great Wave”. It is a tour deforce both in terms of design and execution. I’ve known and admired this print for many years. Mokuhanga, meaning “woodblock printing,” is a distinctive Japanese art form with deep historical roots. Originating in China around the 8th century, the technique entered Japan via Korea and was adapted over centuries into a uniquely Japanese tradition. Its development is intertwined with the cultural, social, and technological evolutions of Japan. During the Heian period (794-1185), woodworking and stencil techniques laid the groundwork for what would become Mokuhanga. However, it was during the Edo period (1603-1868) that the art truly flourished. Wealthy merchant classes and the burgeoning publishing industry created a booming demand for illustrated books, maps, and images, propelling Mokuhanga into a mass-production art form. Notable artists like Hokusai and Hiroshige elevated Mokuhanga to new heights by producing expansive series of ukiyo-e prints depicting landscapes, kabuki actors, and beautiful women. These prints combined artistic mastery with innovative printing techniques, making art more accessible to the general populace. The traditional process involves designing an image, carving separate blocks for each color, applying natural mineral pigments, and printing on handmade washi paper. The multi-layered process allowed for detailed, vibrant images that capture Japan’s aesthetic sensibility. Modern practitioners continue to preserve and innovate within this tradition. Mokuhanga’s history reflects a blend of craftsmanship, cultural expression, and societal change. Its enduring appeal lies in the meticulous artistry and deep connection to Japanese history, embodying centuries of technique, patience, and reverence for nature.

MOKUHANGA