Introduction to Mokuhanga

In this two-day course we will explore Japanese woodblock printing technique of Mokuhanga. You will learn how to plan and transfer your sketch to cut, register and print a two-colour image. You will explore materials and papers used to produce a delicate, watercolour like imagery.
The course will cover bokashi and gomazuri techniques to enrich your prints with gradients and textures.
You will be using Shina plywood, a soft wood, barren, a bamboo disk and specialist Japanese papers to create your prints. All the materials will be provided. Each participant will get 5 sheets of Japanese washi for your final prints. Additional washi paper will be available to by on a day.
We will be working with simple abstract forms to create our prints, so please feel free to sketch things in advance, or brings images, photos, prints etc. to discuss your ideas.
Mokuhanga is a water-based printing technique which is an eco-friendly alternative to western style printmaking. It doesn’t require heavy machinery to print it’s relatively easier to manage in a small set up. It produces a delicate imagery. It’s a wonderful technique to explore colour in a more subtle way.

The course is suitable for beginners and printmakers, who would like to extend their process.

Martyna is an experienced printmaker and workshop facilitator, with passion for learning new techniques. In 2024 she explored mokuhanga during the 4-week residency at the Mokuhanga School in Karuizawa, Japan, taught by an excellent artist Terry McKenna. Her prints are inspired by places she visits and people she meets. At times the imagery is purely decorative, other times humorous with elements of storytelling.

The course is limited to 6 – to get the most our tutors and facilities.
Please bring an apron and lunch. Teas and Coffee will be provided.

Terms and Conditions:
Bookings are only confirmed on receipt of the full cost of the course. If full payment is not made, you will not be allowed to start the course. We reserve the right to cancel the course at a weeks notice if there are less than 4 participants booked.

Please note

We will not be liable for any childcare, travel or accommodation fees lost due to cancellation by us.

Cancellation Policy:
The sum of £50, will be lost If you cancel at short notice (less than 2 weeks before the course start). If your place cannot be filled, no monies will be returned. Please note that it is necessary for tutors to be passed your e-mail address for the purpose of running the workshop, please see our privacy policy. For further information please email us on info@gpchq.co.uk

Mokuhanga Japanese woodblock printing – Weekend workshop with Martyna Sabadasz