The Travels of Hiroshi Yoshida to India

“Every child is an artist: the problem is staying an artist when you grow up”

– Pablo Picasso

In today’s email:

• Artwork of the week

• The Travels of Hiroshi Yoshida to India

• Anime Recommendation

Artwork of the week: "Zōjō-ji Temple in Snow" by Kawase Hasui

Artist: Kawase Hasui
Title: Zōjō-ji Temple in Snow
Medium: Woodblock Print
Date: 1922

About the Artwork

This week, we feature Kawase Hasui's serene woodblock print "Zōjō-ji Temple in Snow." Hasui, a key figure in the Shin hanga movement, is renowned for his landscapes. This piece captures the historic Zōjō-ji Temple in Tokyo blanketed in snow, evoking tranquility and timeless beauty.

Temple Significance

Zōjō-ji, a Jōdo-shū Buddhist temple founded in 1393, served as the Tokugawa shogunate's family temple during the Edo period. The site includes the mausoleums of six Tokugawa shōguns and the Sangedatsumon, Tokyo's oldest wooden building (1622).

Historical Context

Despite suffering damage from fires, earthquakes, and World War II bombings, Zōjō-ji remains a vibrant cultural heritage site. Hasui’s 1925 depiction captures a peaceful, snowy scene, symbolizing purity and resilience.

Artistic Elements

Hasui's skillful portrayal of light, shadow, and detail creates a calming winter landscape, reflecting harmony between nature and architecture. The muted colors and delicate brushwork enhance the serene beauty of the temple in snow.

Visit Zōjō-ji

Located in Minato, Tokyo, Zōjō-ji is surrounded by Shiba Park and the Tokyo Tower. Visitors can explore its historical sites and the Treasure Gallery, which houses significant art and artifacts.

The Travels of Hiroshi Yoshida to India

Hiroshi Yoshida, a renowned Japanese artist, embarked on a fascinating journey to India in the early 1930s. His travels not only enriched his art but also created a cultural bridge between Japan and India.

Drawn to India

In 1930, the allure of India’s rich history and vibrant landscapes drew Hiroshi Yoshida from Japan. Armed with sketchbooks together with his son Toshi Yoshida, he was eager to capture the essence of this ancient land.

Exploring Bombay and Varanasi

Yoshida’s journey began in Bombay (now Mumbai), a bustling port city with grand buildings and diverse people. He spent weeks sketching landmarks like the Gateway of India and the lively markets, capturing the city’s vibrant spirit.

Next, Yoshida traveled to Varanasi, a sacred city on the Ganges River. The sight of pilgrims performing rituals and the ancient temples moved him deeply. His sketches from Varanasi blend the city’s spiritual essence with its everyday life.

The Majestic Himalayas and Architectural Wonders

Yoshida then ventured north to the Himalayan foothills. The towering peaks and lush valleys offered a serene beauty that resonated with his artistic sensibilities. He spent months painting the tranquil landscapes and the resilient mountain people.

India’s architectural marvels also fascinated Yoshida. He meticulously sketched the intricate details of the Taj Mahal in Agra and explored the vibrant palaces and forts of Rajasthan, marveling at their grandeur and color.

Returning Home

After months of travel and countless sketches, Yoshida returned to Japan with a wealth of inspiration. His Indian journey profoundly influenced his art, evident in the vibrant colors and intricate details of his subsequent prints. He made a total of 32 prints from his travels to India.

Lasting Legacy

Hiroshi Yoshida’s travels to India were more than a journey; they were a bridge between two rich cultures. His art continues to inspire, showcasing the beauty of cultural exchange and the universal language of art. Through his eyes, we see the enchanting landscapes and soul of India, forever captured in his timeless works.

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Anime Recommendation: Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama

Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy

Episodes: 1 (Movie)

Studio: Nippon Ramayana Films

Director: Yugo Sako, Ram Mohan

Release Date: August 10, 1992

"Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama" follows Prince Rama as he embarks on an epic quest to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana, with the help of his brother Lakshmana and the loyal Hanuman.

Why Watch It:

- Epic Story: A captivating retelling of the ancient Indian epic, Ramayana.

- Cultural Fusion: Combines Indian mythology with Japanese animation, similar to how Hiroshi Yoshida's travels to India enriched his art.

- Iconic Characters: Features beloved figures like Rama, Sita, and Hanuman.

- Action-Packed: Filled with thrilling battles and heroic adventures.

- Beautiful Animation: Stunning visuals and rich detail, bringing India's landscapes and culture to life.

- Discover India: Like Yoshida's journey, this film showcases the beauty and mythology of India, making it a fascinating watch.

Where to Watch:

It’s available free to watch on Youtube. It’s a bit low quality tho sinds it’s old now, but still a good watch!

See you next time!

Thank you for joining us in this edition of our newsletter focused on Japanese art and culture. We hope you enjoyed exploring the rich heritage of Japan through our featured sections, including the captivating artwork of Kawase Hasui and the inspiring travels of Hiroshi Yoshida. We also hope you found our anime recommendation, "Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama," a delightful cross-cultural gem.

We value your feedback and would love to hear your thoughts on this issue. Your insights help us improve and bring you the content you love. Please share your feedback and suggestions with us at [email protected] or dm us on instagram @jpnstudio2023

Stay tuned for our next issue, where we'll continue to dive into the world of Japanese art and culture. Until then, stay inspired and keep exploring!

Kind regards,

Bjorn from JPNSTUDIO