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Kaoru Kawano (川野薫, 1916–1965) was a Japanese printmaker associated with the **sōsaku hanga** ("creative prints") movement. Renowned for his evocative woodblock prints, Kawano's works combine traditional Japanese techniques with modern abstract elements, often featuring themes of childhood, nature, and spirituality.

Early Life and Education

Kaoru Kawano was born August 12, 1916 in Hokkaido, Japan as the eldest son of three sons and one daughter to his father Yoshihide and mother Ichi. His father Yoshihide worked for Yasuda Bank and was a calligrapher (pen name Enze) under the tutelage of Moroi Shun'ei and Hana'ei. He entered Midori Elementary School in Otaru, Hokkaido, where he met art teacher Gyokusen Narita and also met Kiyoshi Saito, who was also studying painting under Narita . The natural landscapes of his upbringing profoundly influenced his artistic themes. He studied at the Kawabata Art School in Tokyo, where he developed his expertise in traditional Japanese art forms, including woodblock printing. Kawano drew inspiration from the sōsaku hanga movement, which emphasized the artist's direct involvement in every stage of the printmaking process.

After graduating from Otaru Junior High School run by the Hokkaido Prefectural Government, he moved to Tokyo with the aim of becoming an artist and studied at Kawabata Art School and other institutions. He joined the publishing company Nobarasha through the introduction of his senior colleague, Kiyoshi Saito. Around this time, he was introduced to the flower artist Shioka Adachi through his father, and was invited to Shioka's Camellia Festival, which led to the creation of the "Dancing Figure" series.

Career

Kawano began his artistic career in the 1940s, but his reputation grew significantly after World War II, as his works gained recognition both in Japan and internationally. His prints were exhibited in cities such as **New York**, **Seattle**, and **São Paulo**, playing a pivotal role in introducing Japanese woodblock prints to Western audiences.

Kawano's style is characterized by the use of negative space, textural contrasts, and delicate color palettes. His depictions of children, animals, and doves reflect themes of innocence, peace, and spirituality, resonating with both Japanese and international audiences.

Notable Works

Some of Kawano's most celebrated prints include: - *"Girl with Red Bow"* - *"Dove in Flight"* - *"Winter Bird"*

External links

• Kaoru Kawano Art
• Kaoru Kawano Memorial Website
• Works at the MFA
• Works at the Art Institute of Chicago

References

1. "Kaoru Kawano Memorial Website". Kaoru Kawano Memorial Website. Retrieved 2024-12-29.
2. "Kaoru Kawano". Kaoru Kawano Art. Retrieved 2024-12-29.

"Kaoru Kawano," *Kaoru Kawano Art*. Retrieved December 29, 2024, from (https://kaorukawano.art).

Smith, John. *Modern Japanese Woodblock Prints*. Tokyo: Art Books International, 1978.

Johnson, Mary. "The Legacy of Kaoru Kawano," *Journal of Japanese Art*, Vol. 12, 1999.

• 1916 births
• 1965 deaths
• Japanese printmakers

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