Label
Although there is no direct depiction of water in this work, there is a harmony between water and the printing process that allows for the creation of the delicate colors and patterns of mokuhanga. Every part of the printing process requires an aspect of water. The blocks are soaked before printing to prevent the absorption of color. The pigments are mixed with just enough water to keep colors fluid but vibrant. The paper is evenly moistened which allows for it to be malleable and more receptive to printing. Though this harmony between mokuhanga and water is not always apparent in the final image, the print could not exist without this delicate balance. (Clear Water: Encountering Mokuhanga, 2023)