THE ARTIST – KAWASE HASUI

This Japanese artist was not highly famous in Japan although he did make an impact in other countries. Ranked as one of the greatest of all woodblock print artists in Japan, his work is definitely unique and detailed. During the Shin Hanga movement, Kawase Hasui was one of the most talented and innovative masters. In fact, his work was so amazing that prior to his death, it was declared a “Living National Treasure”. Born as Bunjiro in Tokyo, his family were merchants. While many artists were focusing on Japanese styles, Kawase Hasui took interest in western styles. His first lesson pertaining to art was watercolor and oils, taught by Saburosuke Okada. As you can imagine, his family was not pleased with the direction his was taking, doing all they could to dissuade and even stop him. Determined to get Kawase Hasui to work in the family’s merchant business, a huge conflict arose, causing the company to fall into bankruptcy. Read More...