Steiner discusses Japanese woodblock printing at PSA

Richard Steiner, a master of the Japanese woodblock printing technique, will speak about his work and process at 12:30 p.m. Sept. 9 at the Peninsula School of Art, in conjunction with the current school exhibit, “Out of the Woods: Contemporary Woodblock Prints,” in which Steiner has prints that trace his 45-year career on display.
Internationally recognized for his work, Steiner practices the art of Japanese woodcut, or mukohanga. The process involves carving a woodblock using Japanese carving tools, applying water-based ink colors to woodblocks with brushes, using a kento registration system, and burnishing the paper using a handheld baren. Traditionally, separate woodblocks are carved and printed for each color.
Steiner developed of a line of brushes that are prized worldwide for their ability to both hold and apply large amounts of moisture to a woodblock.
After a brief stint as a New York fashion photographer, Steiner moved to Japan from his native America in 1970 to teach English. After 10 years of study with notable Japanese masters, he received his print teacher’s license and artist’s name, “Tosai.” Since that time, he has taught children and adults, both Japanese and foreigners, out of his Kyoto studio. In 1997, Steiner and his students formed the Kyoto International Woodprint Association, which can be found online at www.kiwa.net
Another special event in conjunction with the exhibition is a print fair with from 1 to 3 p.m. Sept. 20 with featured artist Linda Kelen of Wisconsin. Kelen will facilitate the creation of small woodblock prints for visitors to take home. The fair is free and open to all ages.

Peninsula School of Art and its Guenzel Gallery are at 3900 County F, Fish Creek. A donation of $5 is suggested for admission to the talk and refreshments; From noon until the talk begins, attendees may bring a brown bag lunch or make selections from cheese-and-cracker trays. Hot and cold teas will also be provided. Regular gallery admission is free. For more informatrion, call (920) 868-3455 or go to www.peninsulaschoolofart.com.