Discover the world of Japanese artist Fusako Yoshikawa with a showcase of her latest collection of vivid and abstract woodblock prints at the Northern Print gallery in Ouseburn Valley, Newcastle upon Tyne.
“When I touch trees and paper, I feel very happy. I like to create shapes in wood blocks with cutting knives. While I am cutting, small pieces of wood scatter and form a new shape. That shape gives me a clue about my next work.” – Fusako Yoshikawa
Fusako uses traditional Japanese woodblock techniques to create her abstract, bold and dynamic prints. For each print, she uses four or five separate wood blocks. The shapes on each block are developed with great care, and the pattern that inhabits each shape is simple and effortless, though expertly conceived.
The exhibition follows a long relationship with Northern Print who first exhibited her work in 1999 as part of an exchange with printmakers from Nagoya, Japan and Northern Print artists. This followed a residency in 2003 and demonstrations in 2010.
“Why do I use woodblock process? Because I like it. I like it because it doesn’t take up much space to work. Also, tools such as Baren, Washi and Hangi are easy to get. So, woodblock is my favourite above all the other methods to draw pictures. I receive inspiration from nature, plants and scenery. Recently, I am interested in shapes that can feel wind blowing.” – Fusako Yoshikawa
All the work in the exhibition will be available for sale. Northern Print are members of Own Art, a national scheme funded by Arts Council England that makes it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary art with 0% finance available.
Exhibition details
Fusako Yoshikawa – Selected Woodblock Prints Exhibition
Wednesday 9 August – Saturday 30 September, 2023
