In the modern world nowadays, many Japanese artists have begun
to express their artistic form through exploration of different mediums. They no
longer restrict themselves with the making of traditional woodblock
printing. Even the woodblock print technique has led to an adoption of new
modern techniques, enriched with a variety of technical methods. For
instance, through the traditional technique of woodblock print, many kinds of
wood have been attempted throughout the centuries; however, only the species of
wild cherry called Prunus Serrulata has been immensely used.
Nevertheless, today many manufacturers have produced many kinds of plywood
veneer that can be used if its texture is considered effective in the print.
Another example is, instead of using pigment and paste as inks, many artists are
now using ready-made block printing inks that can be easily found in any art
shop as it will last longer and gives faster results. Moreover, the colour will
not easily fade because of the improvement in opacity. These changes are mainly
influenced by the Western artists. Generally, the existence of technology
has always brought more advantages than disadvantages to the society when
utilised well. Even in the history of art, many Japanese artists are no
longer working in groups as each artist now prefers to work individually
in order to achieve personal satisfaction in their creative work. However, the
question arises in that if the technology and development is taking over the
conventional techniques of printmaking, then what does the future hold for
them? Where does the woodblock print stand or how is it being measured in our
estimation today? Is it important to sustain these traditional techniques for
future benefit?
Munsterberg H., (1982) concurs that etching on the other hand,
is beginning to assume a more prominent place as two leading Japanese
printmakers of the younger generation, Tanaka Ryohei and Ikeda Mutsuo, are
working with this medium in getting the effect of realistic details.
Yoshida T., and Yuki R., (1966) remarked that the publisher
artists-artisan system of printmaking has become nothing but a barrier
restricting the freedom of the artists. The younger generation of Japanese
artists therefore has little or no interest in creating their works in
accordance to the system.
According to history, the purpose of art has changed throughout
time and place. Art is now widely open to new possibilities of
interpretation. Some may have gotten tired of Japanese woodblock prints
but before it is completely taken over by other methods, it should
never be neglected as the techniques should remain for the benefit of future
generations. It is also important for a nation to sustain their cultures
to show establishment of their cultural identity which is reflective of a
community. In addition, if the conventional techniques are taken over
by digital printing, what will happen to the arts institution since the
public can now easily have access to quick and easy printing?
It seems that the future of woodblock printing is still vague. With
the existence of this blog, the public now has access to sources of information
on traditional woodblock printing and can learn how to handle tools in the
appropriate way in order to achieve good quality carving in printing.
Hence, with the connection of my study to conventional and digital printing,
the entire experience has provided a new perspective of understanding in history
and art appreciation toward the ukiyo-e art that allows acknowledgement
from the future generation. Through this platform, it is my hope that it will have
some impact on my career development and have some influence on my professional
peers. Hopefully, the sharing of this aesthetic awareness in this
blog is useful and the art of woodblock printing will continue to be
appreciated in the future.
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