Katsushika Hokusai Art

Katsushika Hokusai (31 October, 1760 (date challengeable) – May 10, 1849) was a Japanese painter and printmaker who was born in Edo, now Tokyo, Japan. He was a genius, and considered among the greatest artists of all time. Hokusai was also a renowned master of the famous Japanese woodblock print. Although regarded as one of the most influential and greatest Japanese artists, a lot have been said that his work and character are less Japanese, especially due to the Western influence in his work, particularly the impressionist art. Hokusai started out his artistic career at the age of 14 when he became an apprentice engraver. At the age of 18, he joined a studio owned by Katsukawa Shunsho, one of Japanese revered artists. He worked at the studio for one year and released his first artwork. Hokusai adopted his Hokusai name in 1797, after creating several art pieces influenced by Shigemasa and Kiyonaga. He was actively involved in art at a time when both Chinese and Western art were beginning to take root in Japan. It’s these influences that have defined his style; a style that’s universally acceptable. Hokusai’s 1800’s “Famous Places of Edo” is one of his greatest art pieces. He also sold some of his sketch books under the name “Hokusai Manga.” His other works include “The 36 Views of Mount Fuji,” and the “One Hundred Views of Mount Fuji,” which began in 1834 and was concluded in 1835. He covered different subjects, namely, birds, landscapes, and flowers. Hokusai was very difficult to predict. He changed his names 26 times and his addresses 93 times. Katsushika Hokusai framed art is found in many home interiors due to their high quality and artistry.