Master Grafika: The Satoru Itazu Workshop
Introduction
From 1984 to 1985 Satoru Itazu and I studied collaborative lithography at the Tamarind Institute in Albuquerque, USA. Each year the Tamarind Institute accepts applicants from all over the world in this unique and elite lithographic training institute.
After the Tamarind experience many printmakers secure careers in custom printing, curatorship, art practise or education. Satoru Itazu chose collaborative printmaking in his home country, Japan.
Since 1986, he has worked consistently and developed a reputation as one of Japanfs leading collaborative printmakers. Whilst the majority of Satorufs collaborating artists are Japanese, a number have also come from Australia. I have had the opportunity of visiting Satorufs workshop in Tokyo on four different occasions over the past six years. On each occasion I have witnessed his mastery and skill in producing exquisite prints for emerging and established artists.
2006 is the year of exchange between Australia and Japan. The Queensland College of Art, Griffith University has hosted a number of exchange projects with Japanese Institutions and individuals throughout the year. Most notable has been the postgraduate student exchange between the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music (Geidai) and the Queensland College of Art. eMaster Grafika: The Satoru Itazu Workshopf is foremost in the suite of Japanese/Australian collaborative projects offered by the Queensland College of Art to students, staff and the Brisbane community.
The talents of master printer Satoru Itazu have enabled Japanese and Australian artists to realise their art through the lithographic medium in a diverse range of styles and themes. We are privileged to view an impressive collection of Satorufs collaborative works for the first time in Australia at the Queensland College of Art, Dell Gallery. This exhibition is testimony to a master craftsmanfs lifelong ambition of assisting artists to realise their work in the demanding and beautiful lithographic print tradition. It is with sincere appreciation that we welcome such a varied collection of limited edition prints.
On behave of the Queensland College of Art, Griffith University I would like to thank Satoru for his valued contribution to Australian and Japanese print production and for making it possible to showcase his fine collection of master prints.
I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of Simon Wright and the Dell Gallery team for mounting this special exhibition; Anne Kirker for her written contribution in this catalogue; the Japan/Australia Foundation for their valued sponsorship; and the Queensland College of Art, Griffith University for embracing and supporting the year of exchange between Australia and Japan.
Russell Craig
Senior Lecturer in Fine Art
QCA, Griffith University
3. 10. 06
