Hokusai is a famous Japanese artist who lived during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He is best known for his woodblock print series “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji,” which includes the iconic “Great Wave of Kanagawa.” Although Hokusai is not directly tied to Hawaii, his art has had a significant impact on the culture and art of the islands. And since it’s winter where waves get ridiculously huge on the north shore, what better way than to bring appreciation to the ocean.
One of the ways in which Hokusai’s art has influenced Hawaii is through the medium of ukiyo-e, or “pictures of the floating world.” This form of art, which originated in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868), was characterized by its use of woodblock prints to depict the everyday lives of common people, as well as landscapes and other scenes from nature. Hokusai was a master of this art form, and his prints were widely distributed and admired in Japan and abroad.
In Hawaii, ukiyo-e prints were introduced in the late 19th century by Japanese immigrants. They quickly became popular among the people of Hawaii, who were drawn to the bright colors and dynamic compositions of the prints. Hokusai’s “Great Wave,” in particular, became a favorite among Hawaiian artists and art collectors.
The influence of Hokusai’s art can also be seen in the work of Hawaiian artists who have been inspired by the ukiyo-e style. For example, the Hawaiian artist Sig Zane is known for his use of bold colors and dynamic compositions in his designs, which are heavily influenced by the ukiyo-e art of Hokusai and other Japanese artists. Similarly, the Hawaiian artist Mark N. Brown has been heavily influenced by the works of Hokusai and incorporates many elements of the ukiyo-e style in his paintings.
In addition to its influence on Hawaiian art, Hokusai’s art has also played a role in shaping the culture and identity of the islands. His prints, which depict the beauty and majesty of nature, have helped to foster a deep appreciation for the natural world among the people of Hawaii. This appreciation is reflected in the many outdoor activities and cultural traditions that are an integral part of Hawaiian life, such as hiking, surfing, diving and fishing.
Hokusai’s art also reflects a deep sense of spiritualism that is closely tied to the culture of Hawaii. The artist’s emphasis on the natural world and the beauty of the landscape is closely tied to the Hawaiian belief in the power of the land and the importance of living in harmony with nature. This connection can be seen in the many Hawaiian heiau (temples and shrines) that are dedicated to the gods and goddesses of nature, as well as in the many rituals and ceremonies that are performed to honor and thank the natural world.
In conclusion, Hokusai is one of the most famous Japanese artist from the Edo period who has had a profound influence on the culture and art of Hawaii. His iconic “Great Wave” and other ukiyo-e prints have been widely admired by Hawaiian artists and art collectors, and have helped to shape the culture and identity of the islands. Hokusai’s art continues to inspire new generations of Hawaiian artists and to foster a deep appreciation for the natural world among the Hawaiian people.
As always, check the news for any water advisories. I’ll leave you with a clip of surfers at Peahi, otherwise known as Jaws.
