The Great Wave - Part 17

Seven years after beginning his Great Wave project, Tokyo-based woodblock printmaker Dave Bull brings the latest update ... episode 17.
This one deals with an issue upper-most in the mind of many of the fans and collectors - what is the condition of the set of woodblocks? After seven years in production, can more good prints really be made from them?
***
[ We're already getting requests ... I should have foreseen this ... but no, I'm sorry; the reject prints mentioned in the video are not for sale.]
***
The closeup print comparison images referred to in the video can be found in this directory of the Mokuhankan website:
mokuhankan.com...
Information on the Mokuhankan edition of the Great Wave:
mokuhankan.com...
Our Twitch stream:
/ japaneseprintmaking
Our Patreon page:
www.patreon/mo...
Our webshop:
mokuhankan.com...

[@bfrazer8696]

“I’m sure most people haven’t seen all 16 episodes of this series” Me, who’s probably seen every episode at least 8 times: Yeah probably not

[@Russell-1]

I’m not up to eight times but it’s certainly more than once through them all.

[@karotconcarne3325]

Yeah uh... p-probably not. Ehe-hehehehe

[@evanlane1690]

Me, whose first exposure to his work is this video: give me a couple hours... I'll catch up!

[@JasonP6339]

At least I don't have to feel like that much of a weirdo then because I guarantee you I've seen every single video on his channel a dozen times or more each..... I would be more starstruck accidentally running in to David in real life than I would any worldwide famous A-list celebrity..... I hope to god I could at least muster the confidence and words to say something and not sound like a moron, but it's incredibly hard to know how you will react when you're standing right in front of one of your heroes.....

[@vanessathenavigator]

My first day in Japan in 2019, the very first thing I did after leaving the airport was making a “micro wave” print with Dave. It was the most lovely introduction to my two weeks there. Thank you for welcoming me Dave and Cameron and Audrey and the rest of the staff! I was so nervous to be there alone and your warmth and kindness meant the world.

[@Souichri]

Did you have to schedule ahead with Dave? I plan to go to Japan next year and wish to learn more about woodblock printing

[@vanessathenavigator]

@@Souichri yes! I joined a "print party".

[@sabrina.rae97]

The Great Wave playlist is how I fall asleep most nights since Dave emits Bob Ross vibes.

[@firstnlastnamethe3rd771]

Yep, other than the fact he doesn't like to call the flaws in his stack of reject prints "happy accidents," he's definitely giving off Bob vibes.

[@nigellee9824]

I know what you mean, I fall asleep the minute he starts talking……

[@EmHunt]

It’s 4 AM and I just stumbled on this video…I’m excited to both learn and be lulled.

[@danmcdaid]

I like his "Meaning of Life" and "David's Choice" videos for this. They're all great though.

[@cresswga]

Kickstarter backer #129 here. I can't believe that people sold their prints! Mine is on display right next to me at my desk and I still love it.

[@DarkAvatar1313]

"As long as you let it drink, it will cooperate..." Sounds like some of my relatives. lol

[@rpysher5]

LOL …well stated …

[@andrewowens4231]

Haha brilliant 👏

[@SjefSjaakie]

lmao gold comment.

[@Gollumfili]

Hahaha sensational

[@dpmakestuff]

I just finished rewatching the entire series! Perfect timing.

[@dpmakestuff]

Heart sunk when he said the wait list is over 1999 😭

[@pedro55845]

I watched them 2x just finished watching and this gets uploaded hqhah

[@chrisd530]

When it comes to wood block prints, Dave takes the bronze, silver and gold.

[@hombretropical3028]

No, he takes the wood, chisel, and baron!

[@izzydavid42]

No competition

[@julianstrauss3843]

no no, like the olympic scandal, David takes gold gold and bronze xD

[@mahdi8835]

I can can assure you I have watched all 16 of them. Twice. And I'm sure a lot of people have.

[@KnudGL]

Few months ago I turned 42 and my younger brother gave me a present which I appreciate completely. He gave me a woodblock printing made by you! My brother and I went to Japan two years ago, just two brothers, and loved being in Japan. We were in Tokyo. So now there is a piece of work, that you made, hanging here on my wall here in Greenland, Upernavik. So, thank you so much for your beautiful work, and thanks to my brother as well. Love and respect from Knud Geisler Larsen, an Inuit from Greenland (Inuit Nunaat).

[@seseragistudio]

@Knud Geisler Larsen When this order came in a while back, I was very curious about the address, so I looked it up in Google Maps. I took a stroll around your interesting town, and also went up to the Airport to look out over the sea. Seems quite a beautiful place ... and it's fun to think of one of our prints now living there!

[@drix4275]

^_^

[@KnudGL]

@@seseragistudio Great! Welcome to our city haha. Another thing and coincidently, my grandparents had a nickname for me and it was Muku and hankan from Mokuhankan in the Danish language equals "han kan" = He can/he can do it, so basically it says Moku (he) can, or Moku he can do it. I really thought, when I first saw the name, that it was about me but it was just a really big coincindence. Anyway, thank you again.

[@katekelley1533]

I really appreciate Dave's discussion about planning for his legacy. I think in American culture there is often an attitude that talking about death is inviting disaster rather than preparing for the inevitable, and it is wonderful to see the care being taken to have this beautiful art continue to be made and enjoyed by the next generation.

[@piccalillipit9211]

I live in Bulgaria now, and I often think how much we hide death in the West. Its all around me now, not on a bad way, in a part of life way. Its hard to explain.

[@PixelBytesPixelArtist]

Dave I can’t stress how much I admire you. You took so many insane risks to learn about this traditional craft with so little profit. It’s amazing how inspiring that is. The safe choice might not always be the most fulfilling and you’re great proof of that

[@amarug]

Since over a year I am counting seconds until I can finally fly to Japan again and walk into your shop in Asakusa for the first time. :)

[@vanessathenavigator]

It was my favorite thing I did in Japan. Do it!

[@BIP101]

The honesty you have is truly something special. I cannot wait for the day I receive an email instructing me I can finally purchase The Great Wave :)

[@ButteredSlightly]

How long have you been waiting?

[@-n66-18]

@@ButteredSlightly twepeewejerky’s tête-à-tête to retells you are so beautiful beautiful face baby girl lol lol I’m bout to go get back lol and then I’ll be home lol lol oh lord oh man oh no no it’s not nothing too crazy lol lol oh lol lol I’m sorry sorry bro bro mrh

[@BIP101]

@@ButteredSlightly around a year, I'm pretty sure he mentioned somewhere that the waiting list is pretty long so only god knows when it'll be up for grabs ;)

[@tonyskilbeck8663]

“I’m sure most people haven’t seen all 16 episodes” who answered “I have”! I know I did.

[@bread.crumbs]

I started watching this and initially thought, “I’d like my print to be one of the earlier ones from a fresh carving” but as I continued to watch, there’s a sense of uniqueness and a story behind every print…peace & love

[@PraisingWithFriends]

Well said.

[@GlassesnMouthplates]

I can watch Dave talking about a single particular block or print for literal years. Also, I'm just astounded and amazed by the life hack of temporarily "restoring" cracked woodblocks by damping them with warm water.

[@bizzystudio3945]

Hi Dave! I waited all the way until the end to comment, but I wanted to say what an eye opening journey that was to watch! I was very lucky to have seen a couple Instagram posts about classic artists such as Hasui, Hiroshige, Yoshida, etc., and decided to search Google more thoroughly. I'm so grateful the video listings showed your YT channel (I started yesterday night btw lol) Not only do you have a perfect storytelling voice, but the caring attention to quality detail and research you did on this project was nothing short of mesmerizing! This series reminded me very much of the philosophy behind Kintsugi, that even experiencing failures and setbacks can be mended into something so beautiful. I hope one day I can try this art style out myself, and just know I will sing your praises to anyone asking me how or why I started for as long as I am able to

[@howtosurviveelectronichara6474]

I got kicked off KZbin for unknown reasons a few years ago and just remembered you. I’m so glad you are still here. Thank you.

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

Good seeing you again. Looking forward to seeing the Mokuhankan culture blossom.

[@HybridAnchor]

Such a thoughtful way to do business. I love that. Many would hike the price. Supply and demand, but you're intentionally keeping them more accessible by keeping it level. I also like your respectful way of honouring your teams skills. Although you clearly can do many if not all of the stages and are highly skilled, I always notice you are quick to dishing out the credit to those skilled workers in your team and out with that play a hand in it. Or mention when a small error is normal and doesn't reflect or cast shade onto the printer or what not. Absolutely love this KZbin channel. ♥️

[@RghHgr]

I put myself to the very end of the waiting list only a few days ago (i.e. first day of summer 2024). When the time will come up to me, half a decade from now, I would like to obtain one copy printed from Dave's original block set - don't care how worn out the print may look then. And an additional copy from your younger carvers - to encourage their continuous efforts for the future! BTW: Damn the KZbin algorithm for not suggesting this channel to me nine or ten years earlier!

[@JackWiizard]

I'm a simple man, I see David, I press like.

[@alih6685]

I can never get enough of Mr. Bull’s candid nature and beautiful and thorough explanations of the process and the business. Unfortunate to hear the wait list is in the 1000’s; I clearly have a long way to go before I get my own copy!

[@thegoodgeneral]

Whether you're reading from a script or making it up as you go, you're extremely eloquent and well-spoken, Dave.

[@seseragistudio]

This is definitely not 'off the cuff'; I quite carefully planned out the flow and structure of the presentation. Some of these videos are indeed 'rambles', as is probably clear, but when I have a specific group of facts/figures I want to present, I prepare carefully. But thanks!

[@hermanmelville2840]

I have one of the more recent prints, and I am sure it is the closest to a masterpiece as envisioned by the original artist as I will ever have in my home. The respect you have for the craft and reviving a proper edition given all the garbage reproductions made in the intervening century or so is a great gift to lovers of the art form and the artist. Thank you. I was watching a video recently about Van Gogh’s Starry Night, and while most people know he was a huge fan of Hokusai and Japanese woodblocks (including the several painted copies he made), many more probably don’t realize the curl of the Great Wave was the probable inspiration for the central swirl in Starry Night. Hope we are coming to Tokyo again some day not too far away and look forward to coming by your shop again. Wish you all the best Dave.

[@whizzytheelephantadventure1063]

David Bull is the great ship that carries us over the great waves of life.

[@projekt6_official]

It's so cool how some parts of the block degradation as you show around 27 minutes ADD to the images. You and your shop staff's commitment to the best product is highly admirable, Dave. As always, it was a genuine pleasure to watch your video. Thanks for sharing the update!

[@BartKevelham]

Dave, you will have had lots of comments over the years on how great your videos are. Their lovely production, the great information in them, you sharing your skills and those of your team with the world. The invaluable source of information for those who just appreciate the craft, but perhaps even more so for those who actively engage in it. But above all, these videos make me happy. They never fail to leave me with a smile on my face, providing a distraction from whatever else is going on. Here's to hoping you'll keep making them for a long time to come.

[@fajitariñho]

Came to check in on Dave after seeing it’s been 3 months. glad all is well and that you guys are focused on your work. take your time. we will be here when you get back!

[@jacquescommandeur6424]

Absolutely loved to watch your latest Great Wave video Dave: fantastic!

[@seseragistudio]

@Jacques Commandeur Thanks Jacques! Not sure how long it will be until the _next_ episode ... I'm beginning to suspect that this block set might just outlast me!

[@jacquescommandeur6424]

@@seseragistudio What reassures me is that your mother is still alive! So if genes are any indication ...

[@johannao4849]

My heart broke when I saw the pilgrimage key block as I recently put myself on that waiting list, and it was THAT print that drew my attention the most. I pray it will work for you long enough for me to get to buy the prints.

[@wbradburn8871]

Thank you for the update. The day when my print shows up in the post will be one to remember...whenever it comes.

[@donovanfremeth5757]

You have definitely kickstarted the woodblock carving and printing culture in me. After having discovered you and your art I am completely blown away by every print I can get my eyes on. Thank you for making history within me Dave.

[@budvarlager7027]

Oh wow , i just started watching the series couple nights ago, whenever i saw the notification i thought to myself "wait , i turned off recommendation notifications , what is going on KZbin?" but it was a rather pleasant surprise indeed :)

[@Blueskybuffalo]

I’ve been watching your channel for so long. Initially as a way to learn more about the art form but also because you have a Bob Ross-esque presence. Unfortunately I never had enough disposable income to spend on prints. Today, as a birthday present to myself, I’ve allowed myself to buy a couple. I even put myself on your waitlist for The Great Wave. You’re a fantastic craftsman and salesman and I’m proud to finally be able to support your efforts. Thank you!

[@massivesandwich6932]

Can't believe I was just a teenager watching these in 2016 and now it's wonderful knowing as an adult things are still going on!!!

[@CypressJoker]

While I understand the younger carver not wanting to be on camera, I do hope that we get some kind of video comparing the two editions, just to showcase the differences in taste between Dave and his colleague. I'm sure the new edition will be just as stunning in its own right.

[@ForgedbyVi]

With a four figure waiting list for this print, my respect and thanks to the Printer. She is amazing, and I look forward to proudly displaying mine when it arrives.

[@Yupppi]

Hi! I'm from Twitch, only bumped into your channel a month or two ago. Your stream is often at 2 am for me, but I've grown attached. It's so interesting to hear about crafts and art, but also history and society in Japan. Last night I fell asleep watching the stream just before I saw the KZbin plate, but I'm impressed, very cool! And to learn that you've been doing this on KZbin for ~10 years and even newsletter type of thing since the 1990's! Congratulations! And the best wishes to you finding new qualified employees, as well as sourcing your materials. Looking forward to more story times in the future!

[@finchleyhall2563]

Hi Dave!!!!!!! Love from California!!!!!!!!!!! I can't wait to see your prints no matter who had the honor of making them, your videos have educated me so much and I'm thankful you decided to start making them!

[@johnqcurls]

Got my print at the end of last year. Couldn't be happier with how it looks. I love that I have a print that I watched you research and create from beginning to end. The whole series, as well as your other videos, really gave me an appreciation of ukiyo-e I never would have developed without it.

[@zackpali5037]

Finally a new video. The last 2 have been great, but Dave and his Bob Ross / ASMR Voice... it's been missed! And Dave, I have watched all 16 previous great wave videos, several times!

[@gavinducco7915]

This is one of the best channels Ive subscribed to. Much love from the Philippines🇵🇭

[@templeartsbonsai]

Ok...the print of the cat and the bonsai is officially on my need list ! Thanks Dave for more...well... Dave. Love everything you guys do ! Regards from Wales, UK

[@HarpersInfiniteSystems]

Your professionalism, expertise, carefulness, and humility are very honorable, Mr. Bull. And, by the way, I think there may be a market for your misprints, as well. Labelled as such, and sold with an honest assessment of their flaws, I believe they could become collectible as your notoriety and reputation continue to grow.

[@robertoacastillo]

I have been on your waiting list for a couple of months only David and I am extremely excited about the possibility of owning one of these iconic pieces of art, especially knowing the care, love and professionalism put into each and every one of them. You and the entire Mokuhankan team have my utmost respect and admiration.

[@Kataang101]

I was fortunate enough to visit the shop and pick up what looked like his last one available at the time last year right before the pandemic. Thanks for your hard work! The print looks great!

[@fabriziodutto7508]

Dear Dave, thank you so much for your transparence about your outstanding work. For sure you have to be proud of your wonderful masterpieces! I think that the little "errors" in printing can be considered also as a strong "uniqueness" in the print. I got a question for you: are you going to sell the retired copies too if someone will ask you to? Please continue to take us updated with great news and with your wonderful and passionate videos! I wish you great success and health! Take care.

[@anthonymccormack2273]

I have recently re watched The Great Wave series so this video is an absolute delight to see!!

[@pol1229]

Mokuhankan is going to be my first stop in a post-COVID world. I can't wait to meet these craftspeople.

[@jamessmith84240]

Hi Dave The point you made at the end about creating a culture was very significant to me.

[@Jobby1975]

The works are beautiful. Put the prices up. Love your series. Thank you.

[@aaronlocke1469]

I love the level of thought and transparency that goes on in his processes

[@dachshundmafia]

Always good to see a video from Dave!

[@jembawls]

Great update Dave! Might I suggest that you please please please document the restoration process also?

[@MellowMaple]

If I had the money I'd definitely be a collector of all of the Mokuhankan prints! excellent work as always David and the crew!

[@HarrIock]

Thank you for sharing all this knowledge with us Dave. Whenever I sit down to watch your videos I always find myself becoming completely absorbed into what you are saying.

[@californiansniper2133]

I don’t know what this is but it’s interesting and your voice is calming, so I’ll keep watching.

[@JasonP6339]

I can't even begin to tell you how many times I've watched all 17 parts of this series between my family's three KZbin accounts.....

[@joacoosi]

A David notification appears: I click 😁. Thank you for your beautiful videos and stories David!

[@chudzinskiadrian]

thank you for making these videos. your style of video is always soothing so they are perfect for a creating a peaceful mood while enjoying and learning about prints

[@aaron62688]

The video series is the reason I placed my order. More actually the amazing research and attention to detail Dave put into it. I waited a year for my copy and it was worth it. I live near NYC and have seen the Met copy first hand when it was on display. The copy from Dave is faaaaaaaaar more pleasing to look at. Forget the orders of magnitude improvement in print quality from Dave. That goes without saying. But the aesthetic, the colors. I wouldnt trade with the museum if they offered. That’s a lie. Id sell that copy and get back on Dave’s waiting list. :)

[@seseragistudio]

Something else about the Met copy that they don't seem to talk about is the fact that it has been 'retouched' by a previous owner. You can clearly see the places where a skin tone has been painted (carelessly) onto some of the human figures, as well as along the boats. The brush marks/mottling is clearly visible.

[@Rheologist]

This series is how I discovered this channel :)

[@tonywatson987]

Yes, seen all the videos, AND got the print - see it every day! Getting very philosophical towards the ends there, Dave-san? Must be old age creeping in (ask me how I know!) ;-)

[@DenatBalla]

Thanks for all of this content David!

[@chrisholmes8250]

You are the epitome of awesomeness. Please keep doing what you are doing

[@rknowling]

It is always such a pleasure to hear from Dave!

[@allewis4008]

Brilliant video! The process and culture of the woodblock work is always fascinating.

[@alexc.c.4025]

Stunning work by everybody involved. All works looks amazing! 💯

[@ghostlightinthegreenroom]

So great to see an update! Loved the Great Wave process! Those videos made me want to come to Japan and hopefully take a visit to your shop. Best of luck reopening, David and staff :)

[@feegritapan9680]

Thank you so much for all your videos, you are a huge inspiration! Because of you, this fall, I enrolled myself in Japanese woodblock printmaking formation! I'm so happy! have a lovely day! (sorry for my English :) )

[@watchlearnrepeat7801]

Love this print. Glad I purchased a few years ago. Keep up the great work and content!

[@Pholiage]

40mins of bliss. Thanks for sharing the vid my friend

[@dennisraible4177]

Binge watched the first collection of great wave videos back in 2018 and bought my copy right after. Love the print and miss the “let’s take a walk outside the shop at night” clips at the end of those videos.

[@omfgacceptmyname]

the 2021 prints are quite fine, and from these examples i think that in some places they even look better than the 2015 and 2017 prints. i appreciate you and your team's dedication in maintaining the integrity of this blockset.

[@horichuy6254]

I can’t explain how much this video inspires me. I hope after this is done I can pay a visit to mr Hokusai San grave and to your shop too. I love to start my collection w some of your beautiful artwork.

[@BigBatts]

Love the content. Happy for you. You’ve made your dream a thing of reality. I hope Covid doesn’t hurt the business too much. Keep on.

[@LaserPrinterBW]

Thx for the update. Still on the waiting list. I can wait another 14 month for this beauty ;)

[@Chrispbacon94]

I just bought this as a poster for my sister from Target I knew it was familiar! Great work!

[@philbivins7133]

The Great Wave print has always blown me away. This recent video has inspired me to put my name on the list for the next batch. Greatful for the possibility of having one sent my way, one day.

[@DanTaylorZa]

Amazing Dave. Love your videos and vibe!

[@piccalillipit9211]

*I WOULD LIKE* one of the next generation of prints from the apprentice - it is important to make sure these skills and traditions are kept alive...

[@raurumd]

I've seen all your episodes! Love your work

[@user642a2]

Very beautiful work. Thank for sharing

[@prestige3560]

This is absolutely stunning David keep it up

[@ajcsinclair]

Has it really been 6 years? I still love my print thank you for all your hard work.

[@845SiM]

You say the prints were not good for sale, I think there unique. It’s the little imperfections that some people want, like me. Watching these is wonderfully relaxing.

[@ChairmanWang]

Wow, I discovered this channel a few months ago and just finished watching part 16 of the Great Wave series two days ago. I would absolutely love a copy of this print.

[@Not_Lenny88]

If Dave Bull gives another carver the thumbs up, that carver is just as good as Dave in my eyes.

[@deadsteve156]

Another great update, go Mokuhankan!

[@jan9681]

15:54 That pop is so satisfying...

[@PieterKleij]

Seen all the videos and the Great Wave is hanging on my wall. 🌊❤️

[@michaelgergen2627]

“We have a waiting list for these prints that currently runs to 4 figures, the first of which is not a 1” I’m never going to get one of these prints... I’ve only been on the list for a couple months :( Edit: I just want to share my perspective on the follow-up series. While I have no doubts about the capacity of the other accomplished Mokuhankan carvers. I would love to have a copy that has such an intimate legacy with Mokuhankan; that’s had this unprecedented documentation. Heck, Mokuhankan could be called “The House The Great Wave Built,” as it was the Kickstarter campaign that helped solidify the shop!

[@SPACECOWBOY705]

Damn I'm so happy people care so much

[@accountnamewithheld]

I had to wait 16 months to be able to purchase the print. Regrettably, I expect your wait might be longer...

[@jackcaven9614]

Thank you David... it is a beautiful print!

[@scottpascoe562]

You managed to trigger half the worlds JD drinkers when you called it " bourbon " lol. Love it

[@seseragistudio]

[Googles Jack Daniels ...] Aha. Well, what can I say? Hopefully nobody broke their computer by throwing something at the screen ... :~)

[@scottpascoe562]

@@seseragistudio Ah well, I'm sure they will all be just fine Dave LOL

[@windmill1965]

Hearing about the waiting list for this print I consider myself lucky that I was able to buy a copy a couple of years ago. I bought it as a wedding present for my younger brother. I considered it to be the most appropriate present from me, who lived so many years in Japan, and my Japanese wife. It turned out to be a successful choice.

[@Raquel96]

this is incredibly fascinating; thanks for sharing !!

[@AA-qw2jq]

He is beauty. He is grace. But more importantly, art he creates!

[@northwestadvrider5638]

It’s been a while since a new video. Sure looking forward to it. This series was great.

[@rlsimpso]

I appreciate the copy I received last year even more now. The wait was worth it.