Tenkoku Seal Engraving 篆刻
Japanese and Chinese Stamp Making – Tenkoku
Enjoy the process of creating and stamping with your very own hanko seal, with eraser and craft knife, or stones and cutter.
Blair first learned how to cut stamps with his teacher Master Wakabayashi in Japan in 2009, and in subsequent years in Tokyo, and will help you work with your design and cutting, either online on Zoom at our regular group, or at a one to one session.
Why Tenkoku stamp making?
Carve your very own Japanese hanko stamp to make your inei impression, learn about the different stages in the Tenkoku 篆刻 process and the tools used.
Enjoy the meditative and caring process of cutting the eraser or carving the stone to make the hanko 判子, then inking with the deep red inde pigment and pressing on the delicate Japanese washi paper to create your own personal inei 印影 seal impression. Immerse yourself in the moment and notice the lovely sense of touch of the stamp in your hands and the lively lines and the deep spaces of the carving.
Blair will help you create a design to carve, such as of kanji characters related to your interest or your name (in Japanese or English), working with either eraser and craft knife or the traditional tools and materials from Japan such as the wooden clamps, smooth stones and carving cutters.
We will learn about the inspiring old Tensho and Inten style of characters that came from China to Japan, some of the styles of stamp design from Japan and different Chinese dynasties, and the two main types of red and white letter seals, opening up a fascinating cultural insight.
Stamps can be used for stamping artwork, Shodo, Shakyo, Suibokuga, and many other purposes. Please see some examples of Tenkoku stamp making from our past workshops.
Testimonial
“I had a wonderful time at the tenkoku course. I am thrilled with my stamp and have already bought some supplies to make more! Thank you for all your input in helping me to create it. I couldn’t resist, it was so enjoyable and therapeutic to do!”
Laura
Japanese Stampmaking, Cowden Japanese Garde
Join our online or physical classes
We hold regular classes, including our Tenkoku Stampmaking group online on Zoom, for tickets and more info please have a look at our Events and Art groups page.
About Blair
Blair Thomson is a skilled and versatile artist who has exhibited widely (from U.K. to U.S. to Japan) and tutored many individuals and groups since graduation in 2002. At Glasgow School of Art he was traditionally trained in drawing and painting, before going on to study various approaches with other teachers such as master calligrapher Wakabayashi Shujo. He has curated exhibitions and been part of public exhibition selection, so he has a wealth of experience to tap into (info at his website below).
Moreover Blair is a kind listener and always enjoys helping others with their artwork. You will feel safe to confide in him about your interests and any worries or uncertainty you have. Any questions you have or guidance you need, Blair will help you.
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