Out of the Woods

“Vision of Rehabilitation” by Charles Woodruff Coates.

The ancient process of woodblock printing reveals its modern day, artful applications in the exhibition Out of the Woods: Contemporary Woodblock Prints, Aug. 22 – Oct. 18, at Peninsula School of Art. The school invited 10 woodcut artists from throughout the United States, as well as an internationally recognized master of the Japanese woodcut, Richard Steiner, to participate in the exhibition.

Steiner’s prints will be presented as a condensed retrospective within the exhibition, to trace in broad strokes the process and major influences of a longtime master in the Japanese tradition.

The subject matter of the prints includes nature, figurative work in both whimsical and realistic styles, and architecture.

Ellen Heck chose to explore the theme of identity. Prints from her series, Forty Fridas, feature portraits of women and girls dressed as artist Frida Kahlo.

“Chayito as Frida” by Ellen Heck.

Charles Woodruff Coates used the imagery of European cathedrals in stages of renovation as a spiritual metaphor in his black-and-white series, The Cathedral Suite. The ethereal prints represent the ongoing human struggle of living between the religious absolutes of being “sinless or a sinner.”


Two events will be held in conjunction with this exhibit. On Sept. 9, Richard Steiner will speak about his work and process during a lunchtime lecture in the Guenzel Gallery. On Sept. 20, from 1-3 pm, the public is invited to a free print fair at the School, with materials provided. Linda Kelen will facilitate the creation of small woodblock prints for participants to take home.

Peninsula School of Art is located at 3900 County Road F in Fish Creek. For more information visit peninsulaschoolofart.org.