Adventures in Washi - Episode One

[@matthewsawczyn6592]

Dave is literally putting out PBS level educational videos of Japan

[@HorseyWorsey]

basically! I was about to comment the same thing, he's been on a special like that I think.

[@donsimons9810]

He’s got PBS beat… they’re pretty hit and miss

[@reneecarter6702]

Best comment ❤ totally agree the best of the old school pbs

[@frrascon]

Well, He even has admitted to use Ken Burns style techniques on his videos.

[@nonbinaryrussia]

facts!

[@kojote]

No forgiveness needed, we're happy you're back

[@frankverbreyt1487]

The master has never been away, the 1,5 hour Twitch streams are also being streamed here. His expertise, our luck to watch.

[@-ninjanOodlez]

Lol you mean apologies, but I get you. 😅

[@Midnight_CA]

​@@ProperlyParanoiddown-voted immediately

[@roslynmoresh8981]

Do you know of a good place to stay while visiting Echizen Washi Village?

[@seseragistudio]

I myself stay in the Route Inn Takefu (a traveller/business hotel), but it's around an hour's walk west of the village. (Taxis are available, of course ...)

[@nharoth]

There are few things more enjoyable than listening to a brilliant person talking about their passion.

[@elisanereis1860]

Well said

[@yourlifeisagreatstory]

Agreed. One of the reasons I enjoy this channel. Not only is he knowledgeable, he knows how to tell an interesting story with it. Who’s he would stream the live stream in here as well.

[@penmuni3833]

Your videos are like sitting around the fire at night and receiving a great story from an old wise man of the village.

[@JustGoAndFly]

This is just the 2024 version of that. Also this is unintentional ASMR. David deserves millions

[@CAIN_]

Very nicely put

[@IsaacWhispers]

Its currently 5 am, I'm pulling an all nighter hoping to restart my sleep schedule AND I RECEIVE THIS BEAUTIFUL GIFT, WE MISSED YOU DAVID

[@Ghostfabrik]

hope you have a good sleep !

[@paxwort]

A loving note from a fellow owl: I've discovered over the years that this doesn't work. The only way to get any semblance of control over your sleep schedule is to get lots of good sleep. Drink plenty of water, change your sheets, set an alarm. If you need to adjust timings, the solution is naps, not deprivation. I don't always follow this advice, but when I do my life gets easier for a short while.

[@TheInevitableClyphe]

you cant just skip a day 😭

[@JohannesFaupel]

Yes, indeed. Good you're back, @davidbull

[@nirj5991]

i have also tried to "reset" my schedule by staying up late. It doesn't work. You eventually get so tired and won't be able to open your eyes. and then you'll wake up around 7 pm feeling worse than ever and it will be dark out and everything will be closed. Like the other guy said, don't deprive yourself of sleep when you're tired, and practice waking up earlier.

[@Dr_Mel]

My biggest takeaway from this is that Dave is a truly a force to be reckoned with. In the face of a centuries old industry slowly fading out of existence he still finds a solution. An immensely talented businessman.

[@concentratedregret6394]

Today I found out that a Dave Bull KZbin notification might as well say "drop everything you're doing right now" 😂

[@RedArtistx]

Isn't it wonderful how much content there is out there?

[@jakoboconnor916]

Hi Dave, Had the pleasure of meeting you and the team in March with my Dad and brother. Was great talking to you. We appreciate the time you took to talk us through some of the amazing process that goes into every piece. I'll cherish the art forever.

[@caseyallred9878]

That interview was absolutely incredible, so wonderful to hear a true expert and lover of their craft speak on what brought them to their career

[@returntoearth2556]

I love these long form, information filled, just Dave and a camera videos so much. It feels like it's just Dave and the viewer, sitting down for lessons and stories, one on one. I don't think he realizes just how talented he is. The thoroughness and preparedness that he brings to the table, writing the scripts for these videos that are more than an hour in length and prepared with prop after prop, example after example. How many pages are these scripts, I wonder? And how many drafts does he go through? Always remaining entertaining, keeping your attention so easily and never becoming boring. It's just an amazing ability! You're an absolute legend and a treasure, Dave! Never compromise the detailed information and explanations for shorter length videos!

[@3arendel]

Well put. This is precisely why so many people love Dave and the content he produces. Passion really is contagious.

[@alexwynn9733]

Initially I thought, "this will be nice to fall asleep to", but then it turned out to be far too interesting and before I knew it the video was over and I wanted more. Beautifully presented without a shred of pretension; wonderfully engaging to a viewer completely ignorant of the subject matter (me). I'm not sure why KZbin put this in my path, but I'm awfully glad it did. Thank you.

[@Annamac22]

Could listen to you talk for hours! So engaging as well as so relaxing, thank you.

[@Mt-BNN]

I’m currently in Japan after years of wanting to go, so of course Mokuhankan was a MUST stop. David was working on a carving and it was super awesome to be able to see it in person as well as have a lovely conversation with him and the staff. If you’re in Asakusa I highly recommend it!

[@meatballg8655]

slowly but surely david is rebirthing the entire japanese artistic printmaking industry

[@pepealexandre]

Indeed.

[@aaronodst1174]

I appreciate that you're willing to walk back through similar parts of the printmaking timeline in different videos- it ensures I don't miss out, and as someone with ADHD, the multiple explanations really helps it carve a niche in my memory

[@jasonleeholm]

one of the kings of unintentional ASMR

[@chevronlily]

I've learned so much about woodblock printing because of ASMR

[@ken5403]

The ASMR Goat! 🐐

[@HalfMonty11]

I was on the edge of my seat, hanging on every word of the interview. I didn't know paper could be so interesting.

[@rickitynick4463]

I was moved more than I expected when I heard that the man's business and paper making dynasty will be ending after 10 Generations. Witnessing the end of such a legacy, I can't even imagine those emotions.

[@slawa_slaw]

Thx for everything you doing David ❤️

[@bradleyharvey4250]

What a treat! I've been fascinated with the traditional paper making process for many years. The interview with Murata-san was a delight. I think she has national treasure potential. I was amazed to hear she's been doing this for over 27 years. She looks younger than my children, who are all in their 30s. Looking forward to the continuation of this story.

[@seseragistudio]

I'm not about to put her age in here, but it's open knowledge that she has three children, one of whom is 'grown up and flown ...'

[@tenfodaddy4351]

We don’t deserve this master class. Thank you so much Dave. Not only did you educate, you foster warmth and kindness. You’re a Living National Treasure. The interview with Murata-san was actually so wonderfully spiritual to me. Brilliant.

[@ashhempsall9803]

as a novice printer - though etching - Mr. Bull is the teacher one would hope for. Best wishes from Greece. 🙏📿

[@HiGiBu]

one of my most treasured channels is yours. I hope you will keep making this content as it's highly educational and enlightening, particularly your segments where you combine the history with some examples was truly masterclass. These videos offer a rare glimpse into a beautiful art form, preserving important cultural heritage. Greetings from the Netherlands

[@ThePlacehole]

English speakers love their redundancies. 'Washi paper' fits right in among PIN numbers, LCD displays, opening gambits and close proximities.

[@donnaminar4689]

La Brea TAR pits...

[@Jamie_E_Pritchard]

@@donnaminar4689 I have to admit, I didn't know that one. I thought La Brea was just a place name, lol.

[@donnaminar4689]

@@Jamie_E_Pritchard: brea is Spanish for tar, like the petroleum that comes out of the ground in Los Angeles.

[@I_Am_Killer_B]

Mass exodus

[@SillyismThe]

My intention is not parasocial when I say this You’re voice reminds me of my father before he went to war, the calm and soft sound your voice carries is just comforting. Thanks for coming back.

[@macklee6837]

Usually with long vids, I have them in the background while I'm doing other stuff, but with this vid I was gripped all the way through. It's great that you've found a new paper-maker! Looking forward to more adventures

[@SelectorJohnson]

Once you hear "Good evening…" you know it’s about to go down.

[@jamesharris2824]

This is just, in general, one of the most informative, entertaining, and enjoyable videos I’ve seen, period. Dave, you are a GREAT communicator, and your passion for & knowledge of woodblock printmaking is so amazing, but your personality is what makes all this content shine. WHO you are is what makes WHAT you do, SO enjoyable and fun to consume. So THANK YOU, for all your work and the time you put into content like this. I, and im sure dozens of thousands of people, are thankful for you! PS. Glad to hear your health is well and you are feeling better. Praying for your peace, strength, and JOY to continue to sustain you and your work! We love you Brother Dave!

[@thundreturtle]

The lady from the later parts of the video was so pleasant to listen to. It's really nice seeing people who just love what they do.

[@trahnettilhcs]

Return of the King

[@patavinity1262]

Regarding how Rembrandt got access to this paper - he had a great number of contacts among the merchant class, and would probably have acquired Japanese paper and other exotic items directly through them. He was also notoriously spendthrift. At the height of his popularity, he would have thought nothing of buying such expensive luxuries, and during his period of decline, he would happily go further into debt in order to acquire this sort of thing.

[@lindseymashburn-fonzeroth1806]

This man is a gift to the world.

[@JedHenry]

lol “genius designer” - throw enough darts at the board and one might hit a bullseye 🤷 I’m a deeply grateful I can play a small part in this epic story

[@seseragistudio]

Heh-heh ... hi Jed-san! Rather than darts, I think the better analogy is with building a pyramid. The more work and effort spent on the 'base' ... building and widening and building and widening ... the higher up that capstone will be! :~)

[@JedHenry]

This metaphor rings true

[@futuristica1710]

Thank you, gentlemen. Your artistry and craftsmanship is a gift to us all.

[@brianwebb6794]

An integral part, thank you Jed-san.

[@FeedNFS]

you certainly did hit the "Bull" >,.,

[@konradkruk9468]

I just want to say - thank you for introducing and educating so many about this wonderful craft . And I hope that you will be able to continue doing so , and (which is more important) - continue to enjoy doing so for as long as you want to .

[@mikes7376]

I see new Dave, I click. Thanks for the new content; I always enjoy listening to you and the subject matter!

[@cheef825]

Had the honor of meeting Dave at his shop when I had an internship in Japan. Purchased a wonderful print, but the highlight was the very in-depth conversation we had about preservation of music and art as a whole. I intended to go in saying little more than that I was a fan from KZbin, but I got to learn a lot more about art and life from a master of both. It was one of the highlights of my time in Japan as a whole, and I highly recommend visiting of you have the chance.

[@doviuslastname2244]

My favourite kind of notification! Great to see you back, Dave

[@NormDeMoss]

Dave, your presence on this platform is a constant delight. Thank you for all you do, on and off the web.

[@sl3d255]

The work this man does to promote his craft and ensure it lives on is inspiring

[@metalgearbill8827]

Videos like this make me wish KZbin had a ‘love’ button

[@Aedrieus]

What a wonderful mini-documentary. I was captivated from start to finish, and I can't wait to see what's next.

[@SUPERsneeky33]

Murata-san seems like such a nice and genuine person. Wonderful video and interview!

[@marcpaters0n]

If any video on KZbin can claim to be worth the wait, it's this one. An absolutely fascinating and in-depth epic. Thank you Dave!

[@adventureike]

David this is such a fascinating topic, but what makes this video is you. Your enthusiasm, knowledge, and engaging narrative thread takes me on a journey.

[@CinemaSeven]

Murata-san's passion is infectious! Can't wait for this next chapter for Mokuhankan!

[@JasonP6339]

That interview was SO good!! She was so delightful!! I hope she sees this! I would sit and watch her process for hours and hours. I love meaningful repetition and attention to detail and she seems to be the very best in both, although she would never allow herself to admit that lol You blew it out of the park with this whole video presentation, Dave!!!!!

[@shabutie9598]

What a beautiful, educational and lively interview with Murata-san, thank you so much for everything you do David!

[@locotacoking7107]

If you do ever reach a point of retirement from the workshop (50 years from now 😄) I would love to see more videos of you getting to interact with passionate local craftsmen from both older and newer generations on any and all forms of craftsmanship and/or artisan around Japan. I feel that nothing really inspires people more than to see someone who truly loves/cherishes what they do. Thank you for your continued sharing

[@judyhopps9380]

Murata-san seems such a beautiful person. Patient, intelligent, and professional. Thank you for introducing us to the process.

[@jaceyang3375]

No matter how long Dave's content is, I can just watch it all day. Truly a blessing to the human kind.

[@Grantallica]

This is genuinely one of the best videos I've seen on this platform in a long time, I envy the people who have been enjoying your content for so long already!

[@NFT2]

I was able to stop by the shop for a moment during my first trip to Japan last December. I had wanted to visit ever since seeing the original Remembering a Carver video way back when. It was really cool seeing the workspace set up by the door.

[@snotwurfit]

Dave, I know how much work you've put into the making of this video, having watched the Twitch stream replays. It has been worth all the effort and worth the wait. And you mastered the new video software perfectly. Great video

[@jessicabodkin4218]

I am not even into printing, but I am absolutely fascinated with your videos! Your voice is so soothing, and now I am interested in paper!

[@JasonP6339]

Dave please PLEASE DO history lessons in these videos. Every single one of us love it!!

[@mizunanoctis]

This has to be one of the most riveting videos I have ever watched. It's so lovely having you back, David

[@seankavanagh3742]

The You Tube algorithm suggested this video and I am over joyed! What a fascinating art form and subject!

[@stimu_li]

A series, Dave? Wonderful, thank you.

[@BigJengaa]

I have literally never been so happy to receive a KZbin notification.

[@ForumArcade]

I'm glad you've lived the life you have; a life you're happy with, but had you taken any other journey through life, I'd still love to listen to you talk about it.

[@fortnitepartynite3067]

your videos make me realize how beautiful and wonderful life is, If strong passion is present.

[@3arendel]

Amazing video. Very interesting topic with stunning views and props. What a video Dave. Loved every second

[@MathewMcQuinn]

Dave, it's such a pleasure to watch and listen to you speak about these topics. Your depth of knowledge and clear passion for your field is so gratifying. Being able to sit on camera and speak on a subject for so long with barely a cut is a rare skill!

[@scoochin_]

i dont know how to describe it but this specific camera/audio quality is so soothing 🩵 absolutely loved this and looking forward to more!

[@imericallen]

Absolutely love learning from this channel. One of the reasons I've subscribed now for several years. Excited to hang my new Mokuhankan print in our new home!

[@CiofinhoHD]

Dave is a great speaker, I could listen to him all day. The Rembrandt story is pretty mind blowing.

[@MoranetzMakes]

Dave- thank you so much for taking the time to produce this for us. It was such a pleasure to sit down and watch for a whole hour!

[@mattiazanon8104]

Everybody was waiting for this moment! Welcome back Dave sensei 😊

[@Stick-a-fork-in-Gmorks-tort]

This was right on time. Thank you, David.

[@smoothtown90886]

Always a pleasure to see you Dave and to learn more about this craft and its incredible history.

[@PatrickL.McConnell]

The fibers of this story's telling have made something exquisite, Like the paper clothing she describes and the twisted paper never breaking... The fibers grow on and into the future. Lovingly told!

[@thelettucelord]

David, please, your desire to 'not give a history lesson' is just false if you look at what we want. You cadence and passion is just inspiring for me personally to listen to. Unless it is something that you specifically don't want to do, then please make videos that rant and rave about the history of your craft. I would love every moment of it. (Obviously don't do history unless you want too)

[@adamk2459]

I could listen to Murata-san talk about paper & paper making for days. Huge thanks to her for sharing!

[@hushvirginia]

So glad to see you back Dave!! You continue to inspire and bring joy to the world.

[@desktorp]

You are the best kind of foreigner. You not only appreciate the native culture; you genuinely love it. We should all strive to recognize the critical importance of our differences and that a culture is a direct byproduct of its people. Small doses of foreign influence can be a good thing, especially when that influence comes from a person who seeks to conform with the natives. We need nations to remain true to their racial heritage or else the world will just be multinational corporations and the same generic throwaway culture everywhere. Japan must not repeat the mistakes of Europe and America; they must not forfeit their birthright at the altar of international economics and social engineering. A country can survive a bad economy and declining birth rates, but they can't survive mass immigration of nonconformists who seek only to colonize and exploit. Keep Japan Japanese.

[@bazomic]

It's always great to get a video from you David! Keep up the great work!

[@Flickvids100]

David is so amazing. I hope to have this channel for many years to come. I have learned so much about this art, about Japanese history and culture, etc. Even when I want to listen to ASMR, this channel is on the top of the list. Thank you very much, David!

[@zhargidabeoulve]

Rembrandt was an incredibly acclaimed artist and printmaker even in his own time. There would be little practical difficulty in his acquiring the best paper in the world. In other words, I doubt he even sought it out, importers would probably clamor to bring it right to his door... Not that it wasn't rare and coveted, but he was the guy with the supply if ever there was one. Love the presentation!

[@meppy5585]

Dave you are like Ukiyoe Bob Ross, making woodblock carving-printing accessible to the masses via video. God bless.

[@Giga-lemesh]

This was beautiful

[@eeyespeeled]

So glad to see you, Dave!

[@lucasc9087]

i know nothing of this hobby but you kept me engaged and intrigued the whole time. thank you!

[@Android480]

I just learned from Wikipedia that you made this career shift in your 30s. I’m currently entering my 30s and I feel like the walls are closing around me. I feel like I missed any opportunity to build a good life for myself, and even more to find a living I’m passionate about. The ship has sailed. To be honest I can’t fathom having the gall to restart life like that, and to do so successfully. How were you able to do it? How did you have the confidence? Is it just that passion is that motivating? Either way, I’m very impressed.

[@carlospwk]

If you are thinking about doing a career change in your 30s, that's quite possibly the best time to do it. You have some clue who you are, what your strengths are, maybe you have some money in the bank, whatever. Start exploring what's out there and then how to get there bit by bit, you don't need to drop everything you've built in a hurry and start from nothing. The only ship which has sailed was the one which you weren't supposed to be on.

[@MrWalker294]

Your videos are a goldmine for printmaking, and I will gladly wait any amount of time for them to be made. Thank you for sharing what you do Dave, it's wonderful and inspiring.

[@wasitacatisaw83]

Just got home from a 9 hour nightshift. What an excellent way to unwind. Love your videos Dave. Visiting Japan is on my bucket list.

[@calerdonian]

Was lucky enough to meet David in May, when my partner and I visited Japan for our dream holiday. Very happy with the print we purchased. This man is a stand-out presenter! Great video and very informative. Thanks again for some great content 👌

[@Some_Cool_Dude]

literally stopped what I was doing just to watch this, super excited, love your content David!

[@alexanderhess3940]

I was having a really rough day. I love learning about Woodblock printmaking from you, ESPECIALLY the history, and I've missed the David's Choice series. This turned my entire day around for the better.

[@marcappleton2730]

This is one of the most fascinating and enlightening presentations I have ever had the privilege to witness! As well as all your other videos, I find your knowledge, skills and enthusiasm most interesting and calming too. Thank you for sharing your time and passion. 🙏

[@Jophish126]

Absolutely lovely, Dave. As a carver and printmaker myself, I would love similar series (or merely deep-dive videos) on the history and current situation regarding other more "technical" aspects of the craft. Sourcing of the blocks, pigments, brushes, knives, etc. Perhaps there's less to say on these things than on washi, but I would be very interested to get a more historical treatment of the rest of the elements of the craft, and how the tools and components of today compare.

[@TheAces1979]

"Dave Bull" is the most masculine name of all time. The only thing that could top it is if your last name was "missel launcher". You're a national treasure. Never. Change. ♥

[@Artractive_]

So happy to see you are back David!! I’ve missed your videos. Your in depth insight and storytelling of the early days of the woodblock craft and Japan are so immersive and fascinating! Thankyou for taking the time to share your collection and knowledge with us ☺️✨ cannot wait for the next one!!

[@triskellian]

Thank you David for a wonderful presentation on washi! I understand your concern about the dwindling supply of quality paper for print making. This situation seems to be present in other areas of the visual art industry. The history of how the art of print making evolved from a disposable commodity to an appreciated art form was inspiring. It reminds me of how pop art , such as comic books, was mostly meant for kids and younger adults to consume casually. It was such a pleasure to watch the interview with you and the young paper maker. She was a lovely hostess and passionate about her craft. I find it encouraging that there are newer generations of people that are interested in traditional paper making. I look forward to the up coming episodes of this topic!

[@countchokula2680]

Honestly you can tell this guy genuinely loves what he’s talking about I’m subbing I love this

[@mandyb]

Thank you for the video, Dave. I appreciate the care and interest you have in art and craft. The interview was lovely as well!

[@faerly]

Dave Bull could talk about paint drying for four hours and it would be the most thrilling story I had ever heard. Thanks for another great video!

[@miggytorres]

This is such a gift, David. What began as a fascinating video on the history and varieties of washi ended with a beautiful and moving commentary on that silent but palpable impulse to create, with passion, determination, and love. Sending good vibes to you and Mokuhankan! Consider my seatbelt fastened!

[@Vintage_Khaiell]

“Not just nut cases like me!” 😂 I missed you sir. Thank you for the new video.

[@galis4254]

Thank you so much for the richness in this video ! And especially after the amazing visit in Tokyo last week Thanks again for your time and patience listening and giving your point of view about the kimono tiles. Saludos desde Barcelona

[@VampireTrinkets]

Absolutely FANTASTIC way to return!! Super looking forward to the next installment of this papermaking journey