Shall We Have An Art Post?

Jōichi Hoshi 

Milky Way, Rhapsody

    I first noticed this work of printmaking years ago, but didn't look into the artist at all. I was just happy to look at it.  I had thought it was a painting. I am enraptured by it.

     LoneStar looked him up, so I had to look at other prints that he made.

    It's so different from his other works that I am surprised that it was done by the same man! It doesn't look like a woodblock print to me.

    I was also surprised to see that it was created in 1970. So long ago.

I find them all fascinating, but that Milky Way one took my imagination. It also challenged me.  It made me think about technique.

    Between this man and Klimt I became fascinated with metallic paint.

Tree Top

Blue Bird

Red Branches, Akai eda

Jōichi Hoshi was born in 1913 in Tokyo, Japan and began studying printmaking in the 1950s. Hoshi is considered a master of the traditional Japanese woodblock print technique, and his work is known for its intricate details and bold use of color, particularly his use of gold in his prints. He has had many solo exhibitions of his work in galleries and museums throughout Japan and internationally.

One of Hoshi’s subjects of interest is trees, which he has depicted in many of his prints. His trees are often depicted in a stylized way, with strong and clean lines, and are known for their elegance and simplicity. He has been able to convey the essence and spirit of the trees in his prints.

Hoshi is considered a part of the sosaku hanga movement, which emerged in Japan after WWII and was characterized by artists creating their own designs, carving their own blocks, and printing the works themselves. He was a member of the Japan Print Association.

Hoshi’s work often features landscapes and cityscapes, as well as images of traditional Japanese culture and daily life. He continues to work as an artist, and his prints are highly sought after by collectors. His use of gold in his prints gives them a special touch of elegance and refinement. He is particularly known for his depictions of trees, which he has captured with great skill and sensitivity. His work has been recognized and exhibited both in Japan and internationally, making him an important figure in the world of printmaking.

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Many of his prints are apparently still available at Egenolf Gallery, Fine Japanese Prints.  In case anyone is interested.

The prices are fair, considering the quality. All less than $2000.00 except for the Tree Top print, which goes for $4800.00.