Final answer:
A woodblock print is an example of a relief print, a type of printmaking where the inked image is printed from a raised surface left after the non-image areas have been cut away from a matrix like wood or linoleum. This technique is known for producing prints with strong contrast and less detail that were used in historical Asian arts, especially Japanese ukiyo-e.
Step-by-step explanation:
A woodblock print is an example of a relief print. Relief printing is a process where images are printed from a raised surface, with the areas on the matrix (plate or block) that are to remain ink-free being cut away, leaving the image to be printed at the original surface level. This creates a bold contrast between the printed image and the background.
The process begins with carving the image into the matrix.
After the image area is prepared, ink is rolled onto the raised surface. Then, paper is placed over it and the combination is run through a press, transferring the inked image to the paper. Relief prints are characterized by their strong graphic quality with less fine detail compared to other printing methods.
Woodblock printing, a form of relief printmaking, has a rich history and was particularly prominent in East Asian art, notably in Japanese ukiyo-e prints. These prints are known for their dynamic effects and use of contrast.
The process for creating a woodblock print involves multiple skilled individuals, where originally, an artist would create a sketch, which would then be carved into wood blocks, with one block per color used in the final print.
Other forms of relief printmaking include linocuts, where linoleum is used as the matrix. Techniques like reduction prints demonstrate the versatility of relief printmaking by using a single block which is cut away progressively to add different colors to the print.