The Process
"The Making of a 'Reduction' Woodblock Print" By Andrea Rich |
||
| Three blocks will be used in the production of this print. Here on the right, is an impression of block #1 - a simple blank smooth area, printed with a gradated tint. All copies of the edition are printed with this block, which will then be re-carved for the next step. |  |
|
 |
This is the same block, now carrying the general outline of the image, and partially carved. Only the upper part is used, to produce the multi-colored gradated background you see on the right. |  |
 |
This is still block #1, with more detail carved out of the background, and another gradation added. |  |
 |
The same block yet again, carved in still more detail. Note that each time any block is used, subsequent printings are always in a deeper tone than earlier printings. |  |
 |
Here is block #2, containing trees, reflections, and the body of the bison. For the first impression from this block, the body of the bison was not inked. |  |
 |
Block #2 is not finished yet, but it is now the turn of block #3. For this first impression from #3, the near bank was not used - only the far side of the stream was inked. |  |
 |
Back to block #2. The body of the bison was carefully cut out with a scroll saw, inked separately from the tree shapes, and replaced before printing the impression. |  |
 |
Block #3 again. The middle and lower sections appear in different colors because they are separated by enough distance to allow them to be inked separately. |  |
 |
More detail of the foliage has been carved into block #3, and it is printed in a deeper color. |  |
 |
Back to the bison segment from block #2. It is carved with textural detail, and then screwed to a base plate to hold it firmly for printing. The finished print, of course, can never be re-editioned, as the blocks were destroyed by the reduction process.
|
 |
|
Final Impression Woodcut More about Andrea's Woodcut Process
|
||
