Student's Wood-Engraving Handbook

Over a period of time I've been able to post fourteen chapters from Iain Macnab's book; Student's Guide to Wood-Engraving first published in 1938.

Macnab was an influential force during the rebirth of wood-engraving as a form of individual expression rather than simply an illustrative one. His style is notable for its crispness and clean, elegant lines. He was also associated with the vorticist movement in England, a very minor period where the members had only one exhibition of that style.

Nevertheless Macnab's work stands up today and much can be learned from his technique and approach to this very challenging medium.

Night Scene

In case anyone is wondering what Dawson is like at this time of year. Took this picture last night while taking the dog out for a walk, looking down Queen Street towards the Yukon River.

Mali Man ~ Linocut

Here's another in my series of expressionistic linocut prints (5 x 6 inches). I was trying to make one a week to send to my dad for his amusement.

Titled Mali Man and is an edition of 56.

Lou Reed - Linocut Print

Like Dr. Strangelove’s twitching gloved hand I need to reach for cutters and make a print.

The other day here in Dawson when it was forty below I opted for a mental therapy day and made this lino-cut print of Lou Reed’s face (image size - 5.5″x 6").

Why Lou Reed? Because he has a compelling face and presence. I’m not that familiar with his work but I recognize him as an artist/poet with integrity, and that’s something I aspire to, as an artist, that is.

One of my musical heroes is Neko Case. I’m planning to do a colour print of her, maybe using the reduction method.