Katsuyuki nishijima biography of abraham

Katsuyuki Nishijima is a renowned contemporary artist celebrated for his distinctive woodblock prints. Delve into Nishijima's creations to appreciate the intricate artistry of this exceptional Japanese printmaker.

Katsuyuki Nishijima: Biography

Katsuyuki Nishijima was born in in Yamaguchi Province, Japan. He refined his woodblock printmaking skills at the prestigious Mikumo Publishing company studio in Kyoto. Between and , Nishijima exhibited his works with the Kyoto Independents artist group and held numerous solo and group shows.

Similar to the shin hanga movement, pioneered by artists like Hasui Kawase, Tsuchiya Koitsu, and Ito Shinsui, Nishijima's art captures a romanticized vision of Japan. His prints depict nostalgic scenes such as Kyoto's shopfronts, thatched-roof farmhouses, rustic warehouses, vibrant umbrellas, weathered signage, wooden bridges, and ancient stone walls.

Notably, Katsuyuki Nishijima's prints deliberately exclude modern elements like cars or contemporary architecture. His works often portray deserted streets, serene snowy village roads, and empty alleys in Kyoto, evoking a sense of quiet timelessness. This approach resonates with the works of Hasui Kawase, who often used solitary figures to enhance an atmosphere of introspection and solitude.

Some may assume Nishijima avoids depicting people due to a lack of skill in drawing figures. However, this notion is inaccurate. Nishijima's technical proficiency is evident in his published book on the art of printmaking, showcasing his expertise. The absence of human presence in his work adds a contemplative quality, inviting viewers to engage deeply with his imagery.

Kitsch or Art?

The popularity of Nishijima's art often sparks debates about its artistic merit. Critics may dismiss widely appreciated art as kitsch, but this categorization oversimplifies the impact of Nishijima's work.

Consider the film industry: some outstanding movies resonate with niche audiences, while others, like "Lord of the Rings" or "Star Wars," captivate both critics and general viewers. Similarly, Nishijima's woodblock prints strike a balance between artistic quality and widespread appeal, akin to historic masterpieces by Hiroshige, Kunisada, and Taiso Yoshitoshi.

While certain contemporary Japanese printmakers create intricate works that command higher prices, Nishijima offers exceptional value with prints that are both affordable and visually captivating. His work brings art into daily life, making it accessible and enjoyable for a broader audience.

Editions and Edition Sizes

Katsuyuki Nishijima's woodblock prints are available in a range of standard sizes, from small to large. His editions include both limited and unlimited prints, typically hand-signed. Limited editions for smaller and medium-sized prints generally number around copies. The paper quality is good, with minor waviness that flattens over time when framed or stored in albums.

Prices for Woodblock Prints by Katsuyuki Nishijima

Katsuyuki Nishijima's prints are reasonably priced art commodities. Unlike some artists who release deluxe versions of the same design, Nishijima maintains consistency across his editions. This ensures fair pricing without significant disparities for identical designs.

Biography by Helen Merritt

Key details about Katsuyuki Nishijima's career are documented in Helen Merritt's authoritative book, Guide to Modern Japanese Woodblock Prints: :

• "Born in in Yamaguchi Prefecture."
• "Studied moku hanga at Mikumo Publishing in Kyoto from to "
• "Exhibited with Kyoto Independents from to "
• "Experimented with stencil dyeing and printing between and "
• "Focused on limited edition sosaku-hanga woodblocks inspired by traditional buildings since "
• "Notable series include Sixty-Nine Stations of the Kiso Kaido and Kyoto Street Scenes."

Woodblock Prints by Katsuyuki Nishijima

The featured woodblock prints are selected from our collection of previously sold Japanese prints, showcasing the timeless artistry of Katsuyuki Nishijima.

Author:
Dieter Wanczura, revised by AI
First Publication: 5/17/
Latest Update: 1/2/

Bibliography

• Helen Merritt and Nanako Yamada, "Guide to Modern Japanese Woodblock Prints: ", published by University of Hawaii Press, Honolulu, ISBN X.

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