Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849) is one of the most creative and versatile artists in the history of Japanese art. Drawn from extensive collections in the Kansas City area, Hokusai: Masterpieces from the Spencer Museum of Art, the Richardson-North Collection, and The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art introduces Hokusai’s enduring paintings and prints in the context of Hokusai’s time.
A lifelong pioneer
In his career spanning more than 70 years, Hokusai explored new forms of expression, drawing artistic methods and ideas from both Japanese and non-Japanese sources.
Hokusai was a forerunner in ukiyo-e, an art genre reflecting popular interests, such as portraits of celebrities and famous places.
He was deeply involved in the art and culture of Edo (present-day Tokyo), then one of the most populated metropolitan cities in the world. There, he immersed himself in poet circles, for whom he created illustrations responding to their poems.
Katsushika Hokusai (Japanese, 1760–1849). View of Togetsu Bridge at Arashiyama in Yamashiro from the series Remarkable Views of Famous Bridges in Various Provinces, ca. 1834. Woodblock print; ink and color on paper. 9 15/16 x 14 ¾ in. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Purchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust, 32-143/185.
New horizons
Around age 70, Hokusai designed the print series Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji, which includes the print famously known as the Great Wave. The series was a huge success, and pushed landscapes into the mainstream of ukiyo-e.
Hokusai’s mastery inspired artists and art lovers during and after his life, in Japan and around the world.
Katsushika Hokusai (Japanese, 1760–1868). Mitsui Shop at Surugachō from the series Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji, ca. 1831. Woodblock print; ink and color on paper. 10 1/8 x 15 inches. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Purchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust, 32-72/23.
