ART OF WOODCUT

For those who do not understand what woodcut is, it is when an image is carved into the surface of a block of wood. The parts which you carve out remain white while the parts that are not carved will later be inked up and printed. Woodcut is the oldest printing technique which dates back hundreds of years, actually well over a millennium ago. Originating first in East Asia and it is not until the 15h century did Europe begin to really develop the technique.

For our workshop with Peter and Norm, we discussed the history, the practice, the tools and the techniques. A major portion of the workshop was dedicated to the practical experience of carving the block where we could troubleshoot problems while carving and discuss the conceptual issues that come with working in a medium that is naturally high contrast.