June 2 & 3, 2012
Saturday and Sunday, 10 – 5 PM
Instructor: Jim Horton
$230, includes a $35 materials fee

Wood engraving has roots in centuries-old traditions; yet remains a viable medium in contemporary art and graphic design. Wood engraving is the cutting on the surface of hard, end-grain wood with tools called gravers. The expressive line and tonal gradations are striking in illustration.  Artists, printmakers or those just interested in the creative process (of any skill level) will be challenged by the medium, whose expression is intimate, direct and powerful.

Historically, wood engraving was one of the main illustration methods of the 19^th century. Periodicals, newspapers and books employed a huge industry of wood engravers. Photography eventually curtailed its use, but fine printers continued the art in limited edition books and prints. It also was a good medium for catalogue illustration, as the detail was so much clearer than halftone processes.

Today, its almost meditative focus is valued as a process, as well as striking images that have an almost sculptural look. It is not a medium for immediate gratification. It definitely portrays what an artist wants a drawing to reveal. If one loves detail, there is hardly a process that gives you more command of such.

Engraved illustration works particularly well with hand-set type, which is the process of letterpress. The crisp, embossed relief surface of type stamped into paper characterizes relief printmaking. It stands apart in character and beauty. A variety of antique presses will be used in the class to create an edition of prints, with the option of adding some letterpress text.

In summary, this class will instruct in the drawing and engraving on wood, and the techniques of proofing on a press. No previous experience is necessary. Materials and presses will be poised for edition printing. The materials fee  includes practice blocks, and several finish blocks for engraving. It also includes paper, ink, and all the necessities of the class. Students are encouraged to bring a sketchbook and some basic drawing tools (Micron pens) though it would not be a necessity.

Filed under: Calendar, Printmaking, Wood Engraving, Workshops