Traditional Techniques and Adachi's Artisans
Process
Ukiyo-e printmaking process of Hokusai's masterpiece, "Great Wave off Kanagawa"
The master drawing
Finished print
Process
Carving
Carving woodblocks while remaining faithful to the original
The carver outlines artist’s lines faithfully and lively with using the carving knife.
Appling the paste on the woodblock. Turning the master drawing upside down and pasting it to the woodblock. The master drawing is carved away during the carving process.
The carver outlines the lines on the master drawing.
Chipping away larger unnecessary areas with chisels.
A fine chisel is used to cut away in more detailed areas.
The key block is finished and ready to be printed.
Printing
Accurately reproducing vivid colors
The Printer prints each color by hand. Vivid colors are emerging as the artist directed.
The pigment is applied on the woodblock with a small brush.
Washi paper is placed on the woodblock and line up using the registration marks.
The pigment is rubbed into the paper with using a Baren, rubbing pad The printer prints with perfectly consistent pressure.
The top of the printing table (suridai) is lower on the near side, allowing the printer to apply his body weight on the rubbing pad (baren) in the printing process.
This printing process is repeated for each color block.
Printing Process of "Great Wave off Kanagawa" By Hokusai Katsushika
01
the outlines
02
the yellow color of the boat
03
the gray color of the boat
04
the light pink color of the sky
05
the gray color of the sky
06
the black color of the sky
07
the light blue color of the wave
08
the blue color of the wave
Adachi's Artisans
The Adachi Institute of Woodcut Prints owns the printmaking studio where
both carvers and printers work together to create works. The directors are also
work with them in the studio to direct and supervise the every single process.
This perfect triangle of skillful artisans and the knowledgeable directors make
all of Adachi’s works finish in the highest quality.
