An exhibition of Jiangsu waterprint woodcuts, hosted by the Jiangsu Art Museum, is on display through June 28 at Halls 1 and 2 of the Qidong Art Museum in Nantong, featuring over 100 fine works that trace the evolution of this art form.

A Jiangsu woodcut work is showcased at the Qidong Art Museum. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Jiangsu has a long history of printmaking. Woodblock carving reached its peak during the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1944). In the 1930s, a woodcut movement spread across China, with cities like Nanjing, Suzhou, Nantong, Yangzhou, and Xuzhou becoming key centers.

Since the 1960s, Jiangsu waterprint woodcuts have developed their own unique style, growing into an art form that combines traditional Chinese painting with printmaking.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the art form went through a period of transformation. Artists in Nanjing, Qidong, and Suzhou preserved traditional techniques while introducing new ideas. They also brought Jiangsu waterprint woodcuts to international exhibitions, helping this Chinese art form reach a global audience.

In the 21st century, diversity has become the hallmark of Jiangsu waterprint woodcuts. Younger artists continue to use traditional elements such as knife marks and the fluidity of ink, while also experimenting with innovative methods such as copperplate, lithography, screen printing, and digital printing. As a result, waterprint woodcuts have taken on a new brilliance that blends Eastern charm with a contemporary feel.