So, I had this great idea to cut a wood block using MDF. I waxed lyrical to friends family and anyone else who cared to listen( or didn't) about the rawness and lovely physicality of each line that was gouged into the block, how it had more soul, feeling, life! I felt in the physicality of each line there was a little more of myself going into it; that THIS would come through in the work. It was so much part of me. Every line counted.
I was mostly right. Add in a dash of insanity and the list is complete.
SO. I'm really happy with what I'm achieving and I wouldn't say the effort has not been worth the reward, HOWEVER, let's just say I'm learning a lot in the process. I'll touch on the theme later when I get to print. As printing is so much about process, this is where it seems most fitting to stay for the moment.
Tools are important! Seems obvious but I'm telling you I made the right choice in getting Japanese woodblock carving tools. Sorry, but Speedball would not have cut it( no pun intended. My humour is better than that). I quickly reallised I had to go much smaller for the fine detail I wanted to achieve for this piece. Enter the Swiss! A 1mm V gouge and U gouge enter the fold( not as sharp as the Japanese- bit disappointed).
Knowing how to care for your tools is just as important. I have struggled with the set back of sharpening such fine tools to their original shining glory. I will overcome this.
So here is what I've achieved so far;)
