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“I don't say everything, but I paint everything.” - Pablo Picasso

In todays email:

• The Man Who Mastered the Snow: Tsuchiya Koitsu

• Artwork of the week: Kawase Hasui

• The First-ever created Manga

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Tsuchiya Koitsu: The Man Who Mastered the Snow

In the realm of Japanese woodblock printmaking, few artists captured the serene beauty of snow quite like Tsuchiya Koitsu (1870–1949). Known for his evocative landscapes and exceptional attention to light and shadow, Koitsu's snow scenes stand as masterpieces of the shin-hanga (new prints) movement. With delicate yet dramatic compositions, Koitsu transformed snow-covered settings into enchanting worlds where tranquility and artistry collide.

The Shin-Hanga Movement and Koitsu’s Rise

The shin-hanga movement of the early 20th century sought to revitalize traditional ukiyo-e techniques while incorporating Western influences like realistic shading and atmospheric effects. Koitsu, trained under Kiyochika Kobayashi, honed his craft during this period, mastering the interplay of light, shadow, and weather elements. His works, primarily published by Watanabe Shozaburo, exemplify the shin-hanga ideal: blending Japanese aesthetics with Western realism.

Koitsu's snow prints, in particular, demonstrate his ability to imbue everyday scenes with emotional depth and poetic beauty. Whether depicting bustling cities blanketed in fresh snow or quiet temples enveloped in a wintry hush, his works draw viewers into the heart of Japan’s changing seasons.

Snow as a Subject of Mastery

Koitsu’s snow-themed prints are defined by their luminous, almost ethereal quality. Using soft gradients and intricate details, he conveyed the texture of freshly fallen snow and the way light interacts with its surface. Notable examples include:

"Zojoji Temple in Snow"

One of Koitsu’s most famous works, this print depicts the iconic temple in Tokyo under a blanket of snow. The stark contrast between the temple’s red facade and the surrounding white landscape highlights Koitsu’s mastery of color. Subtle details, like the faint footprints leading into the temple and the muted glow of distant lanterns, evoke a sense of quiet reverence.

"Mt. Fuji Seen from Lake Kawaguchi"

This breathtaking scene places Japan’s iconic mountain amidst a tranquil, snowy lakeside. The calm waters mirror the snow-laden landscape, creating a harmonious balance between reflection and reality. Koitsu’s use of blue tones adds to the chilling, serene atmosphere.

"Snow at Ueno Kiyomizu-do"

This print captures the Kiyomizu Hall of Ueno Park in Tokyo, its roof heavy with snow. Koitsu emphasizes the interplay of light and shadow on the snow, using gradations of gray and white to add depth to the composition. The lone figure walking through the snow adds a human element, emphasizing the solitude of winter.

Why Koitsu's Snow Prints Are So Resonant

Snow, in Japanese culture, often symbolizes purity, impermanence, and the passage of time. Koitsu’s ability to capture these themes through his art is unparalleled. His snow prints do not merely depict a frozen moment; they invite the viewer into a world of stillness, where nature’s beauty offers a pause for reflection. His expert use of light and shadow mimics the way sunlight glistens on fresh snow, creating a luminous effect that feels almost photographic.

Furthermore, Koitsu’s collaboration with publishers like Watanabe ensured the production of prints of the highest quality. The meticulous printing process—layering vibrant pigments and delicate embossing—added an extra dimension of texture and vibrancy to his work.

A Legacy in White

Tsuchiya Koitsu’s snow prints are a testament to his artistic genius and deep appreciation for Japan’s landscapes. Through them, he captured the quiet majesty of winter, turning ordinary scenes into timeless works of art. Today, his snow prints continue to captivate audiences, offering a serene glimpse into a bygone era of Japanese artistry.

Whether you’re drawn to their technical brilliance or the tranquil beauty they evoke, Koitsu’s snow scenes remain a sparkling example of the shin-hanga movement—and a master class in the art of depicting winter.

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