Hokusai

The Japanese Master

Katsushika Hokusai, a celebrated 19th-century Japanese ukiyo-e artist, was born in Edo (modern-day Tokyo) in 1760. His artistic journey began with an apprenticeship in a woodblock workshop at age 15, followed by training under ukiyo-e master Katsukawa Shunsho at 18. Hokusai's work, particularly his iconic series "36 Views of Mount Fuji," influenced Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists and gained him international recognition.

Early Life and Training:

Hokusai's early life was marked by an apprenticeship with a woodcarver and later, under the tutelage of Katsukawa Shunsho, a renowned ukiyo-e master.
He began his artistic journey at age 18, becoming a pupil of Shunsho, a leading ukiyo-e artist. Early in his career, Hokusai focused on actor portraits, a popular theme within the ukiyo-e style.

Evolution of Style:

After the death of his teacher, Shunsho, Hokusai was expelled from the Katsukawa school. This led him to explore new subjects and styles, including landscapes and daily life scenes. He famously created "36 Views of Mount Fuji," a series that showcased his innovative approach to ukiyo-e, incorporating landscapes and scenes from everyday life.
Hokusai's work was also influenced by western-style paintings, particularly in his use of perspective.

Impact and Legacy:

Hokusai's "36 Views of Mount Fuji," especially the iconic "The Great Wave off Kanagawa," had a profound impact on Western art. His work influenced Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artists like Manet, Monet, and van Gogh. Hokusai's "Hokusai Manga" (1811), a collection of amusing images for his students, is considered one of the earliest recorded uses of the term "manga".