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Wood Engraving - An Adventure in End-Grain Printmaking with Jim Horton


  • Signal-Return 1345 Division Street, #102 Detroit, MI 48207 USA (map)

We will be exploring the printmaking process of wood engraving (often referred to as the “lost” method of printmaking). It has rich historical roots, and in many ways, brought illustration to the mass media in the 19th century. It remains today, a viable artistic path to personal expression. It is characterized by fine detail and striking contrasts. The tools, called gravers, cut into a polished surface of type-high wood. It works particularly well with letterpress type. In summary, this class will instruct in the drawing and engraving on wood and edition proofing on a press. No previous experience is necessary. Materials and presses will be poised for edition printing.

This is a two day workshop. Please be sure you can attend both sessions before registering.

Saturday, September 17th, 10am-4pm

Sunday, September 18th, 10am-4pm

Price: $225

Class Size: Maximum 10

 James Horton, from Ann Arbor, Michigan, is an instructor of art and graphic design while also practicing letterpress, book arts and printmaking. He has a particular interest in printing history, antique machinery and processes that played a key role in the history of graphic arts. He learned wood engraving from the last days of commercial engraving, and published a book on the subject. He is part of an international organization called the Wood Engravers’ Network (www.woodengravers.net). His work was recently published in the international anthology, An Engravers’ Globe (Primrose Hill Press, London) and he is an honorary member of the British Society of Wood Engravers. He teaches workshops and printmaking at various art schools and book arts centers.