This unit draws on three traditions of relief printing: the pamphlet (Apocalypse edition -15 woodcuts by Albrecht Durer); the celebratory card (Chinese New Year Prints); and the broadside, (Japanese wresting result sheets). While none of these practices continue in their original form or context, contemporary artists continue to be inspired by the technologies, aesthetics and the cultural significance of these early forms of mass produced imagery and information.
Students will be introduced to the basic techniques that underpin the above practices including long and end grain cutting, multiple block assembly, elimination cutting, hand and press printing and various colouring applications through demonstrations and practical exercises. They will then have the opportunity to explore a self-defined theme through one or more of the above processes.
Launceston artist David Marsden works across a wide range of visual arts practices including painting, mixed media, digital media and printmaking processes. His expertise in printmaking encompasses wood cut, etching, silkscreen and lithography.
His prints are represented in many public collections including the National Gallery of Australia, Geelong Regional Gallery, Warrnambool Art Gallery, Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Burnie Regional Art Gallery, University of Tasmania and Griffith University. He is also represented in a number of private collections.