Clifton Karhu - Born in Minnesota, Clifton Karhu lived and worked in Japan for more than fifty years, becoming one of the most important western artists working in the medium of traditional Japanese woodblock prints. Karhu served in Japan as a soldier in the U.S. Army, studying at the Minneapolis School of Art before returning to Japan permanently in the early 1950s. Karhu's colorful images of Japan, mostly of Kyoto where he lived, are lively designs celebrating the beauty and wonder of Japan and its ancient culture. His jewel-like colors, bold line work, and lyrical patterns create a vibrant portrait of his adopted country. Karhu exhibited widely, both in Japan and internationally, and his work can be seen in museums such as the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.

Comments - Serene winter image of the Katsura-rikyu or Katsura Imperial Villa in Kyoto, a beautiful Edo era palace and gardens. The strong black geometric structure of the building provides a lovely counterpart to the soft gradations of blue in the shoji windows, snowy rooftop, and the shadows of the trees on the ground. A masterful composition.

Artist - Clifton Karhu (1927 - 2007)

Image Size - 11 1/4" x 14" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Tape remnants on reverse at edges from original mounting. Toning and minor creases at edges. Please see photos for details. Good overall.