Three Often Coflicting Goals

Latest proofs on new mokuhanga: “Warbling Vireo, Common Yellowthroat and Wilson’s Warbler.” Copyright 2026 by Ken Januski

 Not for the first time I’m trying to finish a mokuhanga and am torn in three directions. What should be most important? The accurate rendering of the subjects, or at least no inaccuracies; an accomplished use of technique, especially in a craft as specialized as mokuhanga, or at least no glaring technical mistakes; or making good art, something that is pleasant to look at or better exciting and exhilarating to look at regardless of accuracy or technique?

In quick sketches I don’t have to worry about this. If they are quick there will most likely be inaccuracies, especially if working from life.  But with my prints, which generally take 3-4 weeks from start to finish, I want all that effort to pay off and to somehow satisfy all three of the above criteria, without driving myself nuts! In the end though it is the art part that takes highest precedence.

This mokuhanga is nearly finished but I just wanted to document my goals as I work on something ambitious before I forget about it and move on to something else.