Creative Highlights – Carve, Paint & Print Provincetown White line

White line printmaking was invented in Provincetown, Massachusetts, in 1914. It was inspired by the beauty of traditional Japanese woodblock prints and adapted in response to the scarcity of wood and tools.

Using a small gouge called a sankaku-toh, grooves are carved into the woodblock creating the white line that defines and separates each area of colour. High quality watercolours are used to paint each element of the design, before Japanese washi paper is laid down and burnished with a wooden spoon or Japanese baren. This pressure transfers the paint deep into the fibres of the paper.

The results can be delicate and soft, or bold and vibrant, depending on your preference. The woodgrain of the block also adds an element of texture and interest, and each area can be painted and printed many times to build up layers and gradations within the image. Julie will also demonstrate in what ways Provincetown white line differs from traditional Mokuhanga Japanese woodblock.

No previous experience is required for this workshop and you can bring along your own design or create one on the day using Julie’s source materials.

You will leave the workshop with a number of unique prints, your woodblock and the skills required to continue carving and printing at home.

Workshop length: 3.5 hours including a break.

Light refreshments will be provided. Please bring a packed lunch if required.