The Club’s Frederick Harris Gallery hosts two leading Japanese print artists as part of a special collaborative exhibition.
Osamu Sugiyama and Hiroto Norikane have a unique connection, having studied under masters from the renowned Yoshida family, whose detailed print techniques date back to the early 19th century.
Drawing on Japan’s rich artistic printmaking traditions and his love of mountaineering, Sugiyama, who studied under Toshi Yoshida at the Yoshida Hanga Academy, creates mesmerizing nature scenes that are both intricate and beautiful.
Norikane, a graduate of the Sokei Academy of Fine Art and Design, honed his craft under the tutelage of Hodaka Yoshida, the younger brother of Toshi Yoshida. Norikane’s works feature subdued colors and motifs inspired by the Japanese countryside.
The prints of Sugiyama and Norikane will be on display from June 6 through July 3.
Artworks are available for purchase through Member Services.
Artistic Thoughts
Moment I realized I wanted to become an artist.
Norikane: It was at the 1977 Nichido Hanga Grand Prix Exhibition.
Sugiyama: I liked to draw pictures and loved hiking. When I was younger, I saw a print by Hiroshi Yoshida and it struck a chord within me. I became obsessed.
What I would tell my 20-year-old self.
Norikane: Make sure to learn more about design.
Sugiyama: Back then, I hadn’t gotten into printmaking yet. I was too busy with my daily work. The stress I went through during that time inspired me to create art. Endure the stress and turn it into energy for the future.
My perfect creative environment.
Norikane: The perfect time to create is when listening to music.
Sugiyama: I now have a larger studio and living space. Living alone I don’t need a big house. That’s enough for me.
Artist, living or dead, I’d most like to share a meal with.
Norikane: I’d like to meet Edvard Munch.
Sugiyama: I’d like to meet Hiroshi Yoshida [father of Toshi and Hodaka Yoshida].
