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Mr. Ryusei Okamoto
copyright Ryusei Okamoto

".. Mr. Yoshimi Okamoto is unique, a fact which I would like the world to know." (Toshi Yoshida about Ryusei Okamoto, formerly known as Yoshimi Okamoto).

This page is a modified reprint of a publication by Japanese printmaker Ryusei Okamoto. On these pages Mr. Ryusei Okamoto demonstrates how he makes one of his intricate woodblock prints. The artist used for the demonstration the design Temptation from the series White Fox.

The original diary can be found with larger images on Diary of Carving Woodblocks. The original text was slightly edited by artelino. Publication by friendly permission of Mr. Ryusei Okamoto.

Dieter and Yorie in July 2006

This page covers the second week from June 14 until June 20, 2006.

Making the Kento

"The kentoh is a simple device which insures the correct alignment of the image throughout the printing process. Kagi-Kento or corner (A) and Hikituke-kento or side (B)."

Moistening the Woodblock with Water

"After having completed the rough carving the woodblock is moistened with water to flatten any slight dents."

Applying Oil-Based Ink

"Oil-based ink is applied on the key block with a roller. (to make the actual lines clear)."

11 Days

"It took 11 days to finish the rough carving this time."

Beginning the Middle Carving

"After the rough carving all of the lines are 3 or more times thicker than they should be. The goal is to make every line thinner and smoother."

Before and After

"Comparison of the carved lines before (A) and after (B) the middle carving step."

More about Ryusei Okamoto

Available in current Auction?
Archive of Sold Prints
Related Articles
Ryusei Okamoto - home page of the artist in Japanese and partly in English.
Ryusei Okamoto Online Gallery - online gallery by the artist in English

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