ORIGINS OF SOSAKU HANGA

Sosaku Hanga, or "creative prints," emerged in early 20th-century Japan as a groundbreaking movement in woodblock printing. Artists such as Kanae Yamamoto and Onchi Koshiro sought to reclaim the creative process by taking full control of the design, carving, and printing stages. This departure from the collaborative approach of traditional ukiyo-e and shin-hanga allowed for greater individuality and artistic freedom. Sosaku Hanga artists prioritized self-expression, embracing abstraction and innovative techniques that diverged from the narrative focus of earlier print traditions. This shift not only marked a turning point in Japanese printmaking but also advanced modernism by celebrating the artist’s autonomy and creative exploration.

HOW ARE SOSAKU HANGA PRINTS CREATED?

The creation of Sosaku Hanga prints is characterized by a highly personal and individualistic approach. Artists handle every aspect of the process, from designing to carving and printing, allowing for complete creative control. To push the boundaries of self-expression, many Sosaku Hanga artists employed experimental techniques, incorporating found objects like string, leaves, and reclaimed wood into their prints. These unconventional materials added texture and dimension, breaking free from the constraints of traditional woodblock printing. By using these innovative methods, artists advanced modernism within the genre, fostering abstraction and a more emotive, personal language in their works. This creative freedom bridged the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern artistic expression, contributing to the evolution of Japanese printmaking.