Japanese Woodcut: Intermediate and Advanced

About this course

The course develops mokuhanga practice through advanced cutting methods, colour separation and printing effects including graduated colour and bokashi, using watercolour and hand pressure. Learners work from visual prompts or, at advanced level, develop their own projects and research. Teaching combines presentations, demonstrations, one-to-one guidance, peer discussion and group critiques. The course also examines approaches used by other mokuhanga artists, with learners evaluating processes and outcomes while refining their use of Japanese woodcutting tools and printing techniques.

What you'll learn

• Apply advanced Japanese woodcut cutting techniques and use tools safely.
• Create woodcut designs from visual sources and prepare colour separations.
• Produce nuanced printing effects such as bokashi using watercolour and hand pressure.
• Evaluate different mokuhanga methodologies and the results of experimental processes.
• Make critical decisions about visual language and the development of a woodcut project.

Is this course right for you?

This course is intended for learners who have completed a Japanese woodcut beginners course and have a working knowledge of mokuhanga processes. Intermediate learners follow guided technical study, while advanced learners work more autonomously on their own projects and share research with the group.

• A sound foundation in Japanese woodcut processes is required.
• Advanced learners are expected to develop and bring their own project ideas or research.
• The course includes group critiques, peer discussions and shared consideration of artists’ work.

Before you go

• Woodblocks, tools, paper, watercolours and other printing materials are provided.
• No apron is required.
• Learners may bring their own woodcutting tools.
• Advanced learners should bring images, ideas and, ideally, a sketchbook and their own drawing materials for developing an initial woodcut.