PhotoFidelity

A number of weeks ago I happened to run across a television program, as I was channel-surfing, which discussed artists in America. I don’t remember the name of the program, only one particular segment. That segment described the works of a modern day woodblock print maker. During the discussion, it mentioned the works of Katsushika Hokusai, a woodblock printer who lived between 1760-1849. The picture above, titled “The Great Wave Off Kanagawa,” is his best known piece and was created 1826.

What struck me at the time — and I have been unable to shake the feeling — was his ability to show so much with such simply forms and lines. Many of his pieces (here, here and here) are the very definition of simplicity and yet the eye is drawn into the image — scanning back and forth — looking for every bit of detail it can find. This is true art; the kind that transcends centuries and cultures; the kind that breathes life into the very spirit of the viewer; the kind of art I’d love to do with a camera. But for now, I’m settling for just drawing inspiration from his works.

To learn a little about this artist, visit Katsushika Hokusai, The Complete Works. I challenge you to learn from a craftsman who still speaks to us through his work. What does it have to say to us as photographers? Remember, we can draw fresh ideas and inspiration from old masters; even those of a quite different medium.

Also check out: 25 Must-See Japanese Artists Who Have Nothing to do with Anime or Manga

If you’re interested, here’s a video that describes the woodblock printing process: Woodblock Printing