Nishijima, Katsuyuki (1945 - Present)
Katsuyuki Nishijima was born in Yamaguchi Prefecture in 1945. At the age of 19 he began studying woodblock printing with Mikumo publishing house in Kyoto. From 1968 to 1972, Nishijima experimented with stencil dyeing and various forms of printing before focusing on woodblock printmaking in the Sosaku Hanga or “creative print” style.
Katsuyuki Nishijima's contemporary Japanese art prints are exceptionally popular, portraying a romantic, traditional vision of Japan: old buildings with umbrellas, rain, snow and wind, and even a contemporary take on the series Sixty-Nine Stations of the Kisokaido. His mastery of intriguing angles and the intricate play of light and color in his work distinguish Nishijima among other contemporary Japanese artists. Katsuyuki Nishijima has exhibited his work throughout Japan, as well as Europe and the United States.
Modern Art | Modern Japanese Prints and Paintings
The 20th century saw the emergence of two modern Japanese print movements: Shin Hanga, or “new prints,” and Sosaku Hanga, or “creative prints.” Both sought an identity somewhere between centuries of rich cultural tradition and modern global character. With growing realism, changing techniques, and a newfound international audience, the Shin Hanga movement portrayed familiar Japanese themes through modern eyes. From sensual beauties and expressive actors, to atmospheric landscapes and sensitive nature studies, the principal genres of ukiyo-e reasserted themselves with renewed vigor. The Sosaku Hanga movement emphasized the participation of the artist in every aspect of production. From carving to printing, modern Japanese printmaking adopted a more spontaneous, expressive attitude through the artistic explorations of this movement. Ranging from figural to abstract, Sosaku Hanga flourished after WWII. Explore Ronin Gallery's selection of modern prints and paintings below.
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