Artist Talk with Landa Townsend: Mokuhanga Woodblock Prints

“Throughout history, art has mirrored the natural world, drawing inspiration from its beauty and complexity. My artistic journey began with this very concept – a deep appreciation for the intricate details and vibrant colors found in nature. Witnessing the environmental challenges our planet faces compelled me to take a more proactive role. My art practice evolved from simply imitating nature to actively participating in its restoration. I found myself drawn to Japanese printmaking techniques, particularly their emphasis on natural materials and meticulous craftsmanship. This resonated with my desire to create art that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible. The traditional methods of Japanese woodblock printing, for instance, utilize water-based inks and handmade papers, aligning perfectly with my commitment to sustainable practices.” — Landa Townsend

“Dragonfly Habitat at the Edges of Weatherhead Hollow Pond: 2021-2024” by Landa Townsend, Environmental Artist

From August 3 – September 30, 2024, experience the vibrantly colored woodblock prints by Landa Townsend in the Main Reading Room of the Brooks Memorial Library.

This collection of prints is the result of two summers of research and observations of dragonfly flight patterns and behaviors, primarily focusing on the Libellula lydia, Libellula luctuosa, and Libellula putchella populations at Weatherhead Hollow Pond in Guilford, VT.

After attending sustainable, non-toxic printmaking workshops at the Two Rivers Printmaking Studio in White River Junction, Vermont, Townsend proceeded to create a series of abstract images representing this ecosystem. These woodblock prints vividly depict the dragonfly behaviors and environment of this vital and delicate ecosystem, while exploring Japanese woodblock techniques that prioritize non-toxic and sustainable methods.

This project was made possible by an Artist Development Grant, 2021-22, with funding support from the Vermont Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Landa Townsend is an acclaimed environmental artist known for her thought-provoking and immersive artworks that explore the intricate relationship between nature, culture, and humanity. With a deep passion for ecological restoration and a profound understanding of the interconnectivity of ecosystems, Townsend creates captivating installations that invite viewers to contemplate their place within the natural world.