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.

Woman Carrying a Basket of Flowers, 1982 - Charming portrait of a young farm woman balancing a large basket of narcissuses atop her head. She wears a blue apron over her blue print kimono and arm protectors, a white cloth wrapped around her head. An extra large format design, enhanced by a metallic silver background. A self-taught painter initially, after WWII Gyojin Murakami studied with the sosaku hanga and folk art master Shiko Munakata. Signed "G. Murakami," titled in Japanese, and dated 1982 in pencil in bottom margin.

Artist - Gyojin Murakami (1911 - 1998)

Image Size - 21 1/2" x 12 1/4" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent color and detail as shown. Some losses and tears at edges, repaired. Slight toning and creasing. Please note, due to the size, this print may be shipped rolled. Please see photos for details.