Sosaku Hanga - The sosaku hanga or creative print movement in Japan began in the early part of the twentieth century. Unlike the traditional collaborative woodblock printing process utilizing a separate artist, carver, and printer along with a publisher, the sosaku hanga movement emphasized artist involvement in designing, carving, and printing the blocks himself, as the sole creator of his work. The movement gained popularity following World War II, earning international acclaim and expanding subject matter to include abstraction. Today most contemporary Japanese print artists design, carve, and print their woodblocks themselves, continuing the vibrant creative tradition established with ukiyo-e. Sosaku hanga prints encompass a wide range of subjects and expressive artistic styles, and are a great choice for a collector interested in modern and contemporary prints.

Comments - Handsome modern design featuring an apple and a leafy branch against textured background with layers of green and black pigment. Not much is known about this highly regarded female sosaku hanga artist. Her work was published in James Michener's important 1962 book "The Modern Japanese Print, An Appreciation." Pencil signed and dated 1961 in bottom margin. A great choice for a collector interested in modern Japanese woodblocks.

Artist - Tamami Shima (1937 - 1999)

Image Size - 14 5/8" x 10" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Tape remnants on reverse at corners from previous mounting. Slight creasing at edges, a few small spots. Please see photos for details. Good overall.