Mandala V 1960

Worden Day made "Mandala V" using woodblock printing, a technique where an image is carved into a block of wood, inked, and then pressed onto paper. The choice of wood as a medium is significant. Unlike the smooth, controlled lines of a pen or brush, wood grain has its own inherent texture, which influences the final print. You can see how the artist has skillfully used the gouge to create lines, textures, and patterns, some areas bold and others more delicate. The print has an overall earthy and organic feel to it, which also adds to the overall feeling of the mandala. Woodblock printing has a long history, particularly in East Asia. It's a relatively accessible and democratic medium, requiring simple tools and materials. The labor-intensive nature of carving each block speaks to a different kind of artistic process, one that values time, patience, and a deep understanding of the materials. This contrasts with faster, more commercial modes of production, inviting us to consider the value of handmade traditions in a rapidly changing world.