June 8th, 2024

Happy Saturday! I’ve been thinking lately of picking up a pen plotter. I’m still in the research phase right now and it’s quite the rabbit hole. I have a bunch of generative art sitting in my p5.js cloud storage that I would love to put down on some paper and a pen plotter seems like the perfect artistic tool for that.

If anyone reading this has suggestions, tips etc please let me know! I would love something capable of large format plotting but that might be outside of my beginner price range.

As evidenced by my recent casts on Warpcast, I’ve been getting back into Japanese inspiration lately and I wanted to highlight an important artist from the Edo period this week. Let’s jump in.

Artist Spotlight - Ito Jakuchu (1716-1800)

Career

Ito Jakuchu was born in 1716 in Kyoto, Japan, into a prosperous family of grocers. The family business, known as Masuya, dealt in high-quality vegetables and fruits, providing him with a comfortable upbringing and early exposure to the detailed and colorful world of produce.

Unlike many artists of his time, Jakuchu did not undergo formal training under a recognized master. Instead, he was largely self-taught. His early exposure to Chinese paintings, along with the works of earlier Japanese artists such as those from the Kano school, significantly influenced his artistic development. He studied nature meticulously, focusing on the detailed observation of plants and animals, which would later become a hallmark of his work.

After his father's death in 1739, Jakuchu assumed responsibility for the family grocery business at the age of 23. Despite his commercial responsibilities, he continued to nurture his passion for painting. His early works from this period were primarily hanging scrolls depicting flowers, birds, and fish, reflecting the natural beauty he observed in his everyday surroundings.

His early works exhibit a blend of traditional Japanese styles with Chinese artistic influences. He often incorporated meticulous detail and a sense of realism into his paintings, showcasing his skill in capturing the intricate features of flora and fauna. His early art was characterized by a more conventional palette and style, laying the groundwork for his later, more innovative pieces.

In 1755, Jakuchu handed over the family business to his younger brother, freeing himself to fully dedicate his time and energy to painting. This decision marked a significant turning point in his career, allowing him to immerse himself in his art without the distractions of commerce.

As his reputation grew, he attracted the attention of prominent patrons, including members of the Imperial court and wealthy merchants. Despite his unconventional style, he was respected and admired for his technical skill and innovative approach. His works were frequently exhibited in temples and shrines, further cementing his status as a master painter.

In his later years, Jakuchu continued to experiment and evolve as an artist. He produced numerous monochromatic ink paintings, reflecting a shift towards simplicity and a deeper engagement with Zen principles. His later works often focused on more minimalist compositions, emphasizing the essence of his subjects with fewer strokes and a more refined technique.

Ito Jakuchu passed away in 1800 at the age of 84. His legacy, initially celebrated during his lifetime, experienced a resurgence of interest in the 20th century. Today, he is regarded as one of Japan’s greatest painters, with his works being highly valued and widely exhibited both in Japan and internationally.

Contributions to the Art World

Jakuchu’s bold use of color, innovative techniques, and unique style influenced many later Japanese artists. He was heavily influenced by Chinese paintings, particularly those of the Song and Yuan dynasties. He integrated Chinese brush techniques, composition styles, and themes into his work, creating a fusion of Japanese and Chinese artistic traditions.

He drew inspiration from the Kano school's disciplined, realistic approach and the Rinpa school's decorative, colorful style. By blending these influences, he developed a unique aesthetic that combined meticulous detail with vibrant, dynamic compositions.

Jakuchu’s integration of Zen principles into his art added a philosophical dimension to his work. His paintings often invite viewers to engage with deeper spiritual and philosophical themes, creating a meditative experience.

Style

Jakuchu’s paintings are known for their extraordinary attention to detail. He meticulously observed plants and animals, capturing their forms and movements with remarkable accuracy. His works often depict flora and fauna with lifelike precision, showcasing his ability to render textures, colors, and anatomical details with great care.

He used vibrant mineral pigments, such as azurite, malachite, and cinnabar, to achieve intense, luminous colors. This vivid palette set his work apart from the more muted tones commonly used in Japanese art of the time. He employed layering techniques, applying multiple layers of color to create depth and richness. This approach gave his paintings a unique texture and luminosity.

Jakuchu often used dynamic and unconventional compositions, incorporating asymmetry, unusual perspectives, and cropping. This innovative approach added movement and energy to his works. His backgrounds were often as detailed as the main subjects, filled with intricate patterns and additional elements that complemented the overall composition.

Jakuchu frequently painted on silk, which allowed for a smooth application of pigments and enhanced the vibrancy of his colors. Silk also provided a luxurious texture that complemented his detailed brushwork. He also used paper for his paintings, especially for ink works and sketches. Paper offered a different texture and absorbency, influencing the final appearance of his artworks.

He often engaged in direct observation of nature, studying plants and animals firsthand. This practice allowed him to capture the true essence and subtle details of his subjects. He made numerous field sketches, which he later used as references for his more detailed and finished works. These sketches helped him develop a deep understanding of his subjects and their natural environments.

Influences and Lessons

The Kano school, known for its disciplined realism and monochromatic ink paintings, was a significant influence on Jakuchu. The school’s emphasis on detailed observation and technical precision resonated with Jakuchu’s artistic approach.

Zen Buddhism played a significant role in shaping his philosophy and artistic style. Zen principles such as simplicity, contemplation, and a focus on the present moment are evident in his work.

Style Representation

Collectors Corner - Bárbara Bezina

Final Thoughts

The biggest news at the Rikkar home is our newest addition to the family, Fushi! He’s a one year old ragdoll with an incredibly sweet personality. We were given the opportunity to adopt him from a couple who took him in after his original owner decided to get rid of him. Unfortunately, Fushi (like sushi, with an F) wasn’t given the attention and love he needed as a kitten so he is quite timid and taking a while to warm up to his new family.

But he’s already showing signs of breaking out of his anxious shell and we’re giving him all the love he can handle. The kids are in love with him.

Yes, that’s a tie he’s wearing…my wife is going a bit overboard 😆 we hadn’t planned on getting another pet so soon after my last cat passed away but here we are. Saying yes is sometimes the best decision you can make.

As always, if you enjoyed this edition I would really appreciate if you shared it. Just hit the share button below. And if you’re not following me on X yet, I’d love to follow you back. I’m also on Warpcast!

On that note, I’ll leave you with a quote to remind us to live like the cat does; on their own terms:

Enjoy your weekend, friend!

P.S. If you have feedback I’d love to hear it! A reply to this email goes directly to me.

Disclaimer: links may include referral codes that provide a small commission to me at no cost to the collector; commissions are paid from mint fees that the platform charge for each transaction.