10 Famous Japanese Artists and Artworks
The influence of Japanese art on the global art scene is undoubtedly immense and has inspired many artists from different cultures and periods to embrace the philosophies and techniques rooted in its culture. One can certainly admire the ability of Japanese art to embody tradition and embrace innovation, which led to many complex creations. Below, we will dive into a selection of the most famous and impactful Japanese artists in history while reviewing their best works to gain a full picture of the trajectory of Japanese art and its influence.
Tenshō Shūbun was born in the Ōmi Province of Japan in the late 14th century. He later moved to Kyoto, becoming director of the court painting bureau, an institution consisting of influential Japanese art patrons.
Sesshū Tōyō was one of the few traditional Japanese artists from the Muromachi period, who was highly respected, not only in Japan, but also in China.
Hasegawa Tōhaku was born in 1539 in the town of Nanao, Japan. Many of Tōhaku’s early works are in the style taught by this school.
Kanō Eitoku was born in 1543 in Kyoto, Japan, and was the grandson of master Kanō Motonobu.
Tawaraya Sōtatsu was most famous for his collaborations with Hon’ami Kōetsu, whom he created many decorative and calligraphic works with, including amazing folding screens, many of which have become national treasures of Japan. Iconic examples of these screens include Wind God and Thunder God (c. 1630) and Sekiya and Miotsukushi (1631).
Ogata Kōrin was born in 1658 into a wealthy family that dealt with the sale and design of textiles to the richer women of the city. His father introduced him to the various arts and he often worked together with his brother, Kenzan. Not only did he paint in various Japanese art styles, but he also was a designer and lacquerer. However, Kōrin is most well known for his decorated folding screens.
Kitagawa Utamaro was born in Edo in 1753 and is regarded as one of the most famous Japanese artists regarding the Ukiyo-e style of woodblock paintings and prints. Utamaro was also famous for his Japanese drawings, which featured large-headed women. Utamaro’s style also varied to include natural studies, in particular, a series of illustrated books about insects.
Katsushika Hokusai was born on the 31st of October, 1760, and was famous for transforming a style that was largely focused on actors, courtesans, and beautiful women by broadening the subject matter and introducing works that included plants, animals, and landscapes.
Born in 1837 as Tomioka Yūsuke, Tomioka Tessai was the pseudonym of this famous Japanese artist. Tomioka Tessai was known for being the last practitioner of the Bunjinga tradition, as well as a forefather of the Nihonga style.
Takashi Murakami was born on the 1st of February 1962, and is recognized as one of the most influential Contemporary artists of the 21st century. Murakami works across a variety of media, including painting, animation, and sculpture, inspired by fashion and popular culture.
