Staff-Waving Dance c. 1790

Katsushika Hokusai made this print, Staff-Waving Dance, using woodblock printing techniques. It's a prime example of how the choice of material profoundly shapes the final artwork. Woodblock printing involves carving an image into a wooden block, applying ink to the raised surfaces, and then pressing paper against it to transfer the design. The nature of wood, with its grain and texture, influences the quality of the lines and shapes, adding to the print's unique character. The process requires meticulous labor, from carving the block to the careful application of ink and pressure. In this print, we can see how the material influences the image's appearance, from the delicate rendering of the figures to the flat, graphic quality of the overall composition. The print also reflects the cultural significance of woodblock printing in Japanese art and its ties to wider social issues of labor, politics, and consumption. Ultimately, understanding the materials, making, and context of this artwork enriches our appreciation and challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.