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June 15 - December 21, 2024
South Two Gallery
Often brightly colored and meticulously detailed, woodblock prints gained initial prominence in Japan as an accessible artform during the Edo Period (1603-1868). Prints made during this period are called ukiyo-e, which loosely translates to “floating world.” These prints have inspired future generations of woodblock print artists, including Paul Binnie (Scottish, b. 1967). Binnie studied 18th-19th century printmaking techniques in Japan from 1993 to 1998. He was drawn to traditional ukiyo-e printmaking because it requires little technology – images are carved directly into wood and then printed directly to the paper’s surface – but high levels of skill in carving a block for each colored layer. Binnie’s woodblock prints reflect deep dedication to the practice and art historical knowledge. They show reverence to the Japanese masters while integrating contemporary tastes and imagery. Some works feature tattoos or cell phones, some have been carved using an electric chisel, and many are rendered in vibrant hues. The artist has said, “Nowadays, there are so few people who practice this form of art, but I keep at it because the technique, for me, is the way to connect with past ukiyo-e artists whom I admire.” The University of Wyoming Art Museum is fortunate to maintain an extensive collection of ukiyo-e prints, and a recent generous donation of seven Binnie prints. In this exhibition, we share Binnie’s works alongside the ukiyo-e works he draws inspiration from.
Images:
Paul Binnie (Scottish, b.1967), Kunisada’s Danjuro – Kanisada no Danjuro, 2006, ink on paper, 15 x 11 inches, gift of Gerald & Joyce Lang, 2024.1.1
Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III) (Japanese, 1786-1865), Kabuki, 1786-1865, woodcut on paper, 13-5/8 x 9-7/8, Friends of the UW Art Museum Purchase, 1981.133
Binnie in Context was curated by intern Paola Terrazas Olmedo and curator Michelle Sunset.
Funded through the generosity of Genesis Alkali and Warehouse 21, with sincere gratitude to Gerald and Joyce Lang.
