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.

Yoshisuke Funasaka - After studying oil painting, Yoshisuke Funasaka began creating prints using a variety of techniques, including woodblock, silkscreen, and lithography, often combining processes in a single work. His designs are primarily abstract, using repeated shapes and forms with an emphasis on subtle variations. Favorite subjects include lemons, wavy vertical marks, and holes, made with punches or other methods. He exhibits internationally and is still active in printmaking, with his works are included in major collections across the globe. A great choice for a collector interested in contemporary Japanese printmaking.

Asahi Culture Center Woodblock Prints - Interesting group of contemporary prints by artists working at the Asahi Culture Center in Shinjuku, Tokyo. The Center teaches woodblock printing, and the well-known printmaker Yoshisuke Funasaka has taught there for many years. An attractive range of subjects including landscapes, flowers, and insects.

Artist - Yoshisuke Funasaka (born 1939)

Image Size - 4" x 3 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - Excellent overall with no issues to report.