The waters and nature of the Great Lakes are the inspirations for the Mokuhanga prints of Michigan environmental artist, Linda J. Beeman. Living in the northeastern lower peninsula, she seeks out the common beauty found in the lakes, rivers, and wetlands to transform into her art. She is passionate about showcasing and conserving these natural areas and capturing them in the ancient and complex Japanese art form of Mokuhanga.

Learning from scientists, conservationists, and park rangers, as well as her own experiential wanderings, the art she creates is embedded with the soul of place. From Mt. Fuji, Japan to Petrified Forest National Park of Arizona, understanding the eco-history of the world informs her works of Michigan.

Mokuhanga – Moku means wood and Hanga means print. A woodblock is carved for each color while overlaying blocks create second, third and fourth colors. Water base pigments are brushed on to each block and then hand printed onto Japanese washi (paper). Each print may have 2 to 12 or more hand carved woodblocks. Traditionally, Mokuhanga was created by workshops of artisans – some carving parts of blocks and some printing. Linda designs, carves and prints each one herself. For that reason, editions are usually very limited and never reprinted.

Known for her subtle, quiet colors, Linda’s prints transport the viewer to a place of peace that is worth knowing and protecting.