Wood Engraving Artist Exhibit at Museum of Printing

Mark T. Fowler, an exceptional artist and printer, created prints with astounding vibrancy, color and detail from his hand carved wood blocks and wood engravings. His work will be exhibited at the Museum of Printing beginning with an opening reception April 26th from 6:00 – 8:00 pm.

Influenced by the methods and techniques of Japanese wood block printers, he used special hand inking techniques that made each individual print different from all others to share his love of the natural world in still-lifes of birds, trees, flowers and landscapes.

Fowler created one piece a year, starting with one-color wood blocks and expanded over 49 years to include colored pieces that were based on multiple blocks. The show will chronologically present his works, along with displays illuminating his creative process including sketches, blocks, tools, color palettes, progressive proofs, research materials and notes.

This exhibition of works on paper by a lesser-known artist will inspire printers and artists alike, and lend an understanding of relief printing and Japanese wood block printing.

The April 26th reception will feature Master Printer Carolyn Muskat demonstrating color wood block printing from Fowler’s original “Day Lilies” blocks.  A small quantity of these signed limited edition prints will be available with special reduced pricing during the reception. Museum volunteers will be printing Mr. Fowler’s “Snow Buntings” on a vintage Vandercook press.

Reasonably priced color reproductions along with prints and cards and letterpress impressions from Fowler’s wood engravings will also be on sale.

Fowler’s works can be seen on Saturdays until September 7 from 10 am – 4 pm at the Museum of Printing, 800 Massachusetts Avenue, North Andover MA. Special showings  can be arranged for groups by contacting the Executive Director at exedir@museumofprinting.org