Nusye McComish – SouthSeaEyes

aka: Portable hand-printed art, daahlink.

So. Blockprinting. Globally-practiced ancient technique, don’t you know.
Yes, ancient, from the Indonesian batik tjap using copper block stamps and wax resist (I should know something of this, my grandpa was involved in the Indonesian Batik scene), to the Japanese Katazome using rice paste resist and katagami stencils (yes, “katagami” = “stencils” – it helps in this narrative, just go with it.), to the Yoruban Adire eleko, using cassava paste resist and indigo dyes; through to the Rajasthani Dabu – a form of mud resist printing and wooden blocks, with inks using naturals dyes.

Proving its versatility once more, in this 21st Century post-pandemic era, blockprinting still captivates artists and crafters alike; this time, this artist printmaker (yes, it’s me, i’m the artist printmaker, okay) introduces a series of summer-themed creations. This traditional method, involving hand-carving designs into rubber blocks and transferring them onto various fabric surfaces allows unique and personalised items – which stands out in today’s mass-produced world.

I’ve grabbed summer through two distinct projects: a collection of themed tote bags and an ambitious large tablecloth. Each piece showcases the adaptability and charm of blockprinting.

Totebags Project Summer: Portable Art!

This features one-of-a-kind tote bags, each one adorned with hand-carved blockprints, celebrationg the essence of summer. There is a collection of sea creatures, beach collections of sea swimmers and sail-away boats; strawberries (yum), pomegranates (but of course), bows (at the time of typing, my daughter tells me bows are in right now – her approval is noted). The film shows these below.

These bags are not just practical accessories; they’re wearable art that brings forth individual’s expression. So if you want a tote that’s one of a kind? block printing is the way to go. Each block was hand-carved with TLC – so your bag isn’t just practical (that too, of course, coming from a pragmatic person here) it is too a piece of art that shows off your personality.

Monumental Tablecloth: Mythology Meets Astronomy

Next step, then, is to go a smidge bigger. An impressive 200cm x 120cm tablecloth, made of 100% cotton calico in neutral – as surface. This large-format piece features pomegranate theme rendered in pale pinks and light greens, with striking deep fuchsia highlights. The design pays homage to the mythological tale of Persephone and Hades, connecting the ancient story to modern astronomical events.

The anual large-scale project of fabric blockprinting is created as a tribute to Persephone’s visit to the Underworld. this year’s pomegranate motif was particularly timely, coinciding with Pluto’s retrograde motion in the sky, adding an extra layer of meaning to the works Pluto is retrograde from May to October 2024.

From small, portable totes to expansive tablecloths, this summer collection demonstrates a goodly range of blockprinting. Whether adorning fabric for accessorising or home decór, the technique allows for the creation of deeply personal, handcrafted items that carry both artistic value and practical functionality. As we embrace the warmer months, these unique blockprinted pieces offer a refreshing alternative to mass-produced summer accessories, inviting us to celebrate the season with individually crafted, mythology inspired art.

Expanding Horizons with Blockprinting

From my point of view, Blockprinting offers a route for artists to expand their skills and reach, providing valuable input into making art more accessible to everyone. Here are some reasons why blockprinting is an excellent medium for artists to explore:

• Versatility: Blockprinting is applicable to a variety of surfaces, from fabric to paper to wood and ceramics. this versatility allows artists to experiment with different materials and create diverse products.
• Accessibility: The tools and materials for blockprinting are relatively affordable and easy to obtain. This makes the techniques accessible to artists at all skill levels – from beginners to professionals.
• Personal expression: Hand-carved blocks allow for unique, personalised designs. Each print carries the artist’s touch, making every piece one of a kind and infused with personal creativity.
• Cultural connection: Blockprinting has a rich history across various cultures. Explorimng this technique can help artists connect with and learn from traditional practices, adding depth and cultural significance to their work.
• Sustainability: In more traditional setting, Blockprinting often uses natural dyes and eco friendly materials, making it a sustainable art form. Whils I am yet to find a suitable means to fabric-print using naturally-existing dye, artists can create beautiful, environmentally conscious pieces that appeal to eco-minded communities.
• Community Engagement: In history, Blockprinting can be a communal activity, whether through workshops, collaborative projects, or public demonstrations. It fosters a sense of community and shared creativity, making art more inclusive and participatory.

Celebrating Tradition and Innovation

In my humble opinion, Blockprinting bridges the gap between tradition and innovation, providing artists with a rich, adaptable medium to explore their creativity. Whether through solo projects or collaborative efforts, this timeless technique continues to inspire and engage, offering endless possibilities for artistic expression and making art accessible to a broader audience. I continue to embrace and tread the path of blockprinting, looking to continually reintroduce older patterns into the now, making it accessible to the wider audience, evolving its use and making it present in the day-to-day. Is it contemporary? That is perhaps for others to define. For me, right here, I am celebrating its enduring legacy while pushing the boundaries of its uses and walking the thin line of art and life.

Your forward-looking traditional printmaking adventurer,

Nusye