Description
Draw inspiration from the stunning coastal landscape surrounding Sitka Center in this 3-day color woodcut printmaking class, open to all levels! On the first day, we will look at the work of notable West Coast woodcut artists such as William Rice, Elizabeth Colborne, Frances Gearhart, and Antonio Frasconi, before heading outdoors to sketch the surrounding forests, estuaries, and ocean views. During the remainder of the course, we’ll focus on transforming those drawings into multi-layered woodblock prints, using brayers to apply non-toxic ink to the carved blocks and printing by hand on thin Japanese paper, a technique you can continue practicing at home. If time allows, we’ll conclude with a print exchange, giving participants the chance to share and take home each other’s work.
Wood to carve will be provided as 6×8 and/or 4×6.
About the Instructor
He first discovered printmaking at Highpoint Center for Printmaking while attending Perpich Arts High School in Minneapolis, later continuing his studies at Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle. His work is represented by Mesh Art Gallery and has been exhibited at institutions including the Tacoma Art Museum, Bellevue Art Museum, Cascadia Art Museum, and the Museum of Northwest Art. In 2024, he received the “Kobaien Prize” at the International Mokuhanga Conference in Echizen, Japan. Beyond his studio practice, Spitzack works as a carpenter, teaches art, and serves as Board President of Seattle Print Arts, a nonprofit supporting printmakers in the PNW region.
Learn More
www.charlesspitzack.com
Materials List
You will need to bring:
Particpants should bring their own sketchbook, pencils, or other preferred drawing supplies for plein air work. Comfortable outdoor clothing and layers for coastal weather are recommended, as well as a small folding stool or blanket for sitting while sketching. Participants with prior carving experience are encouraged to bring the tools they like to use, as the classroom tools are beginner sets.
Provided by instructors:
The instructor provides woodcarving tools, wood to carve, inks, paper, and all other tools needed for printing. Some drawing materials are also supplied.