About the expression effect of Suri in the woodblock prints of Naobumi Seimiya

Technique consideration by reproduction experiment of works "Kiriko" and "Butterfly"

Abstract

This study considers Naobumi Seimiya's creation process from the viewpoint of the author, who is a modern woodblock print creator, and attempts to approximate his rich creativity of print expression and the pinnacle of form he achieved.

Regarding the research method, first I posited his techniques and process, woodblocks, and information attained from previous research. Then, I recreated portions of two of his woodblock print pieces and recorded my considerations therein.

In the reproduction of "Kiriko" (Facets), I created an omohan key block which I used to print 11 overlays on a single print with a single block by altering the printing technique each time. To test the printing process, I started with various methods recorded on 3 instruction sheets and added techniques I surmised to be potentially appropriate.

In the reproduction of "Cho" (Butterflies), I created an omohan key block that uses the complex shape of the outline and overlays versatilely throughout the work, as well as blocks that repel water in some areas and blocks that create the colored surface. For the printing process, I hypothesized the entire process the effects of changes in technique such as water amount and printing methods.

By reproducing the functions and diverse unique qualities of his prints, I experienced firsthand Naobumi Seimiya's woodblock print technique and creation process and displayed experiment results that approximate "the wonder a print can possess as a single image".