Modern Block Printed Textiles

by Alan Powers

An overview of one of the oldest known methods of textile printing, from the late nineteenth century to the present day. This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0744518911
• ISBN13: 9780744518917
• Release Date: January 1997
• Publisher: Walker Books Ltd
• Length: 96 Pages
• Weight: 1.05 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.2" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Get Weaving.

Modern Block Printed Textiles is a small publication dealing with successful exponents of this method of printing textiles in the United Kingdom and the United States, in the fist half of the 20th century. Although the technique is simple, Powers' book and the designs themselves amply display the artistic and creative results achieved. There are plenty of quality reproductions to illustrate the text, which is a brief but facsinating introduction to and record of the works of these textile designers. Powers' focus is the social scene of the times, that made a 'kitchen-table' craft a highly successful expression of sophisticated artistic talent. Textile designers very often remain anonymous, probably because of the 'craft' associations and because many of these designers were women. Importantly Powers indentifies and has made some significant art history available for the art/craft scene of these times. Interestingly enough, Powers has been able to interview some of the artists from the 30s, 40s and 50s, often still practicing, at the time of the preparation of this book, which adds to the relevance of textile block printing (and any other craft) right now. This is important for contempory artists who feel that artistic and creative expression have roles in enhancing the quality of everyday life for everyone. This book will widen the perspectives of artists interested in such work, and these designers are excellent role models.The use of these textiles, and the commissions for them are also interesting. Powers I think is very interested in a block printing revival for textiles specifically, and fine craft generally, and this small but inspirational book, with its excellent visual examples and rewarding text is an outstanding achievement for the field. Any designer or printmaker would want to own this book.