Miscellaneous Blocks of Wood. (self-portrait) 1978 Woodcut print 15 x 20 inches

Gordon Hartshorne (1926-2004)

For nearly thirty years, between 1976 and 2004, Gordon Hartshorne explored the art of woodcut printmaking resulting in the creation of an important body of work.  A lifelong interest in nature inspired his interpretations of woods, lakes, birds, rocks and flowers often from his favorite landscapes of the North Woods and the Florida Gulf Coast area.

Gordon’s prints were created by hand pressing rice paper over ink covered plates; similar to methods used for centuries in Japan.  No printing press was involved, and the plates were relief, usually hand carved in wood, and sometimes enhanced with paper, gesso, sand and glue. This simple printmaking process resulted in vivid, textured, graphic images.

Growing up in Joliet, Illinois Gordon became interested in art at an early age, maintaining a sketch book and taking classes in high school.  After serving in the U.S. Navy, he received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois and spent a summer at the Ox-Bow School of Art as a scholarship student.  He worked various jobs as a graphic designer and was hired by Rand McNally and Company in 1953 and was promoted to Manager of Art and Design for book, map, and atlas publishing.

Gordon retired in 1988 and devoted his energy and remaining years to the refinement of his art and skill as a printmaker.