Kawase Hasui

Kawase Hasui, a prominent Japanese artist, was born in 1883 and passed away in 1957. He was a leading figure in the shin-hanga movement, which was part of the broader Post-Impressionism art movement, known for revitalizing traditional ukiyo-e techniques with a modern sensibility. Hasui's work is celebrated for its serene landscapes and evocative use of light and shadow, capturing the essence of Japan's natural beauty and urban scenes. His collaboration with the publisher Watanabe Shōzaburō was instrumental in the international dissemination of shin-hanga prints. Throughout his career, Hasui produced over 600 woodblock prints, significantly influencing both Japanese and Western perceptions of Japanese art. In recognition of his contributions, he was designated a Living National Treasure by the Japanese government in 1956.