Wood block prints - Angus Collis

Early autumn print.

Early autumn print. Medium: woodblock. Limited Edition of 30. 19cmx20cm. Hand signed. By New Zealand Artist Angus Collis. This work is linked to a study for larger works on canvas 3 Paths. The work is available for viewing in person if you are in the Hawks Bay Area at Paper Works

Description of Early autumn print and the Process

Medium: Woodblock print
Edition: Limited to 70 prints
Size: 19cm x 20cm
Signature: Hand signed

The process begins with the creation of an original black and white image, in this case trees. The image is then transferred onto blocks of wood. Each block is then carved to match the desired colours, ensuring precision in the final result. Each hue of the early autumn ink is delicately pressed onto Japanese paper, bringing the artwork to life with its unique charm.

While these prints don’t come framed, I am readily available to provide expert advice on the most suitable framing options to complement your space. Upon request I am able to get a frame made for you so please contact me.

The Making of in Photos:

Getting the Negative image of trees transferred then carved ready to print on the other blocks for reference

Marking out the different colour blocks.

EC79C8EC A30C 4739 AFEC ECB740EF2FCF — carving out the individual colours

Running experiments with varied thicknesses of early autumn inks and colours as well as introducing the scale pattern in the foreground. For that pattern I’m printing onto a block then re-printing that back onto the paper. A good way to sample pattern before going through the process of carving seperate blocks.

8255026A 0F3F 4111 AB57 C1E1E048B505 — Experiments in different colour combinations. And yes, a lot of them fail haha.

Part way through the process. Playing with brown spots to start, before overlaying colours

Creating original one off mono prints from the blocks just for fun

Im happy here with the random patterns and textures being created

woodblock printing process broken down into stages showing the transfer of image and proofing process — A proof that I’m starting to get the hang of

“Castles” Limited Edition Woodblock Print 32.5×32.5cm

About:

This artwork originates from a blend of my surroundings and personal interpretation. I often merge and stylize photographs taken from my environment in my creative process. For this piece, the focus is on light.

The initial idea came to me after returning from overseas, staying at a friend’s place. Jet-lagged and awake in the early morning, I was struck by the serene morning light over a small man-made lake nearby. Being away from familiar surroundings heightened my appreciation for the concept of home, making me reflect on its significance. The work is titled “Castles” – why? A rock, a cornerstone worth defending, simply, my Kiwilandia.

Other modern art prints for sale are in the prints section, namely “Yellow Trees” and “Log Rollers”.

Explore the iconic works of Collis, celebrated for his masterful use of New Zealand imagery and vibrant color palettes. From captivating urban scenes to expansive landscapes and tranquil forest settings, an example of original art from New Zealand.

Medium: Woodblock print
Edition: Limited to 70 prints
Size: 32.5 cm x 32.5cm
Signature: Hand signed

The Making of “Castles”

vimeo link

Castles Framed and in Situ

“Yellow Trees” Woodblock Print. Edition of 70.

“The not so typical landscape provides all the mystery” This work was inspired by a drive through the North Island of New Zealand from Taupo to Whakatane. A lot of the time Collis’s works are inspired by the what is a mostly overlooked part of the countryside. Admittedly Angus says that he would be one of the most annoying people to take a road trip with as he is constantly wanting to stop and take photo’s.

The focus of this piece revolves around the natural lighting during a summer afternoon. The presence of both autumnal trees with yellow leaves and blooming yellow trees and shrubs, as well as stylized representations of grass and organic shapes, are key elements. Trees have captivated my interest since my childhood, as my parents resided on a farm with an expansive garden, where we frequently planted trees.

Each artwork is signed by hand and comes in an edition of 70. The artwork is not framed but is able to be on special request, this will generally take 2-3 weeks more. Please have no hesitation to contact me through the contact section of the site for details.

You can see the artwork either by making an appointment to visit the artist’s studio or by visiting Paper works Gallery. Please check out the other works in this series through the New Zealand prints section, namely “Castles“, “Log Rollers” and “Autumn Leaves”

Medium: Woodblock print
Edition: Limited to 70 prints
Size: 32.5 cm x 41 cm
Signature: Hand signed

Examples of artwork in Situ

Iconic NZ Art, Log Rollers by Angus Collis

About:

For me, art is always personal. This piece was inspired by my childhood on a small farm and our holidays visiting my grandparents “big flash farm.” Mornings were spent working, but the afternoons were filled with fun around the pool with my brother. This image is a blend of those nostalgic memories, all woven together into some kind of swimming pool print.

It’s always hard to explain what the art is about, as I never want to influence how people see the work or what it could mean to them personally. I hope this small explanation of the influences behind this piece doesn’t alter your impression of the work.

Log Rollers Iconic NZ art Print Details:

Medium: Woodblock print
Edition: Limited to 70 prints
Size: 32.5 cm x 41 cm
Signature: Hand signed
Series: One of three prints, all sized the same. See Castles and Yellow Trees on the Prints page for others in the series.

The Process of Creating Log Rollers Print:

This is a 20-something color woodblock print. Each block was carved based on the color to be used. Using a baren, the paper is pressed onto each block to create the final print. Japanese paper was used, which complements the image and the process. Each limited edition woodblock print has its own distinct quality. A grainy random brown is printed first underneath each image to create the initial texture.

The artwork is not framed, but I can provide advice on the best framing options if needed. Below, you can see scale examples of the work in situ with a frame that works well.