NYAB Event - Yoshitoshi Mori Exhibition

Yoshitoshi Mori Exhibition

Ronin Gallery

This event has ended.

Ronin Gallery presents the private collection of the Mori family estate in the exhibition Yoshitoshi Mori (1898–1992). From kappazuri, to the artist’s sketchbook and select original paintings, this exhibit explores the diverse oeuvre of this pivotal member of the Japanese sosaku hanga, or “creative print,” movement. Many pieces in this unique collection are one-of-a-kind.

While the floating world of Edo had long disappeared by Yoshitoshi Mori’s birth in 1898, his family roots intertwine deep within its culture of artisans and courtesans, instilling his dynamic works with an inherent understanding of this time past. His subjects range from the daily life of the working class and the sensual beauties of the night, to Buddhist imagery and intimate imaginings of classic tales and legendary heroes.

Yoshitoshi Mori worked as a dyer of kimono fabrics and was an active member of the mingei folk art movement for thirty years. This wealth of experience informed his primary print method: kappazuri. This innovative technique uses self-cut stencils to layer color and form, creating vibrant compositions. In 1957, Mori entered one of his prints into the inaugural International Print Biennial in Tokyo. Considered for first prize, this work sparked a debate between art critics that ultimately led the sosaku hanga movement to become the definitive graphic establishment in post-war Japan. Mori’s work can be found in major museums around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art New York, the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Tokyo Museum of Modern Art.

Media

• Painting
• Calligraphy
• Prints

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