Kamisaka Sekka (1866–1942)
Flowers, from "All Kinds of Things" ("Chigusa"), vol. 3
1903
Woodblock-printed album;
23.6 (H) × 35.3 (W) cm
CCJAC (1997.015)
Kamisaka Sekka, 1866–1942:
Tradition and Modernity
May 5 – July 28, 2012
Kamisaka Sekka was born just before the beginning of the Meiji period (1868–1912), a vibrant time in Japan’s history that not only saw the end of a 250-year period of isolation, but also rapid Westernization and modernization of the country. Sekka became an ardent follower of the Rinpa painting tradition, a decorative style that first originated in the seventeenth century. Often referred to as the "Last Great Rinpa Artist", Sekka would go on to lead the revival of Rinpa in the early twentieth century. His influence goes far beyond mere revival, however, as he was also instrumental in the development of modern design in Japan. A prodigiously creative artist, Sekka not only developed imaginative designs but also co-operated with other artists to apply designs to lacquer ware, textiles, ceramics, and furniture. While deeply rooted in the history and tradition of Japanese art, Sekka was a visionary transitional figure between traditional art forms and the world of modern design and production.
Suzuki Kiitsu (1796–1858)
Moon and Waves
First half of 19th century.
Hanging scroll; ink and colors on silk;
127.2 (H) x 55.5 (W) cm
Clark Family Collection (1981.003.CF)
The exhibition Kamisaka Sekka, 1866–1942: Tradition and Modernity focusses not only on Sekka’s own works but also introduces the tradition of the Rinpa school to which he belonged. Covering the history of Rinpa from its inception in the early seventeenth century, this exhibition showcases works by nineteenth-century Rinpa masters including Sakai Hōitsu (1761–1821) and Suzuki Kiitsu (1796–1858) as well as their students. Paintings by these artists focused on themes including flowers, trees, animals, landscapes, and classical literary themes drawn in bold compositions and vibrant colors.
Sekka’s paintings continue in this tradition and sometimes feature the same motifs found in his printed design books. Most of these books were issued in the early years of the twentieth century, which constituted Sekka’s most productive period. The publishing firm Unsōdō, which still exists today in Kyoto, collaborated with all important figures of the design world in Japan and established itself as the foremost producer of pattern and design books for artisans and manufacturers of lacquer ware, ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and other goods. Unsōdō became the predominant publisher of Sekka beginning in 1899 with the collection All Kinds of Things (Chigusa). Later design books included All Kinds of Butterflies (Chō senshū) and Things from Many Worlds (Momoyogusa), both of which were lavishly printed in limited editions of very high quality.
Kamisaka Sekka (1866–1942)
Seven Lucky Gods
1920–1930
Hanging scroll; ink and colors on silk;
124.2 (H) x 48.6 (W) cm
CCJAC (1997.006)
The artworks on display in this exhibition include Sekka’s printed masterworks as well as several hanging scrolls, painted fans, and trays, illuminating Sekka’s resourceful portfolio of motifs and subjects that includes Noh, folklore, and a large array of flowers and plants.
Coinciding with this exhibition is the release of Kamisaka Sekka: Rinpa Traditionalist, Modern Designer, a new, 192-page publication that reproduces Sekka’s most celebrated books from the collection of the Clark Center (San Francisco: Pomegranate, 2012).
Curated by Dr. Andreas Marks, Director and Chief Curator
Gallery hours: Tuesday through Saturday 12:30 – 5 pm. Closed on national holidays and during the month of August.
Admission: $5 for adults, $3 for students and active military service with valid ID. Children 12 and under free.
Weekly docent tours are held Saturdays at 1 pm and guided group tours can be arranged by calling the Center in advance at (559) 582-4915.