Japanese wave tattoos are a popular choice for body art, symbolizing beauty and power. These waves, known for their graceful curves and dynamic movement, carry deep meanings rooted in Japan’s culture. The patterns, often stylized with fish or flowers, represent harmony, peace, and resilience in the face of adversity. The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Katsushika Hokusai is an iconic woodblock print that inspired the design.
Japanese wave tattoos are known for their intricate details and bold colors, often featuring images of people or sea creatures, such as fish. The design is intended to give context to the story displayed in a tattoo. Waves around a koi can symbolize the resilience of the koi as it struggles against the current on its journey, while waves surrounding a warrior can represent turmoil, chaos, or the unpredictable as the samurai works to fight his way through.
In Japanese culture, wave tattoos symbolize beauty, strength, resilience, and the ever-changing nature of life. They represent personal stories, a deep connection to one’s roots, reverence for nature’s power, and a reminder of the vast, unexplored horizons that lie ahead. The symbols and motifs used in Japanese tattoos are inspired by Japanese mythology, folklore, and art. Common themes include protection, bravery, and good luck.
Inkbox offers gorgeous designs inspired by traditional Japanese art, offering bold and timeless looks for those looking for a stunning Japanese wave tattoo.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Japanese Waves Tattoo- Exploring the Special Symbolism | From ancient myths to modern interpretations, Japanese waves tattoo tell a tale of strength, resilience, and the natural flow of life. | thehangouttattoo.com |
| Think Before You Ink: The Great Wave off Kanagawa | This week we’re looking at a piece of art that we all know from our freshman year: The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Katsushika Hokusai. | blog.sartle.com |
| Wave Tattoo Meanings: All About the Symbolism | Waves can represent a strong connection to nature. Waves and changing tides can symbolize the power of the earth. Waves can be destructive or productive. | hushanesthetic.com |
📹 The Meaning Behind Traditional Japanese (Wabori) Tattoos (JPN SUBS)
Welcome to the world of Wabori (traditional Japanese style tattoos) ✌ Today we introduce Chris (Horigo), our friendly artist who …
What Does A Wave Tattoo Symbolize?
Waves embody the essence of change, representing the relentless and inevitable transformations that occur in life. They encourage individuals to navigate these changes with grace and strength. Symbolically, waves exert a significant force, applying pressure between 200 to 6500 pounds, emphasizing their powerful nature. Traditionally, wave tattoos have prevailed across cultures for centuries. In Polynesian tradition, waves symbolize the ocean's might and the cyclical nature of life and death, while Japanese art often features waves, linking them to strength and vitality.
A wave tattoo can symbolize not only inner strength and resilience but also the ability to adapt to life's fluctuations. The array of meanings attached to wave tattoos encompasses resilience, adaptability, and the ebb and flow of life. They are celebrated for their reflection of peace, calm, and power, often signifying the historical significance of ancient Polynesian cultures where they illustrate the ocean's strength.
Wave tattoos serve as striking representations of water and evoke fond memories of surfing or seaside adventures. The beauty of these tattoos lies in their versatility, where different styles and placements can reflect individual personality and preferences. Cast through various artistic interpretations, wave tattoos captivate with their movement and emotional resonance, linking the wearer to nature's rhythm.
A wave tattoo is a profound symbol of the unpredictable nature of life, embodying freedom and transformation. Water is emblematic of renewal, flexibility, and resilience, attracting individuals who feel a strong connection to the ocean, adventure, and exploration. For many, it signifies a deep bond with the sea and the natural environment. The powerful imagery often found in wave tattoos mirrors life's ups and downs, much like the ocean's tides, resonating deeply with those who experience both challenges and triumphs.
The designs, ranging from simple lines to intricate compositions, reflect the beauty and complexity of life itself. They evoke emotions tied to pleasure, adventure, and rejuvenation, paralleling the ocean's vastness. The importance of water in sustaining life adds depth to the symbolism of wave tattoos, as it underscores the unbreakable connection humans have with nature.
Whether representing personal experiences, emotional struggles, or a desire for adventure, wave tattoos are a unique way to express individual stories, making them a popular choice for those seeking meaningful and impactful body art. From their historical roots to contemporary interpretations, wave tattoos offer a powerful representation of life's continuous flow and the strength required to navigate its currents.
What Does The Japanese Great Wave Mean?
"The Great Wave off Kanagawa," or Kanagawa oki nama ura, is a renowned woodblock print by the ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai, created in late 1831 during Japan's Edo period. This artwork, part of the "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji" series, features a massive, swirling wave poised to engulf three fishing boats navigating through tumultuous waters, with Mount Fuji standing quietly in the background.
At first glance, the print showcases a serene aspect of Japanese culture, yet a closer inspection reveals a striking dynamic: the juxtaposition of nature's overwhelming force against the vulnerability of human life.
The Great Wave symbolizes significant shifts within Japanese society, reflecting the emerging foreign influences that threaten traditional customs, embodied by the peaceful presence of Mount Fuji. This imagery may imply the impending cultural inundation from the West, perceived as an unstoppable tide that could alter Japan's historical narrative. The great wave is often seen as representing nature's indescribable power, conveying the precariousness of human existence in contrast to the stability of enduring landmarks like Fuji.
This iconic piece captures Japan's inherent respect for nature and the theme of "ukiyo," which translates to "the floating world," highlighting life's transient beauty and existential struggles. Moreover, it offers a timeless interpretation regarding humanity's insignificant role against the backdrop of nature's majesty.
Scholarly analyses, including those by Hiroe Nirei, delve into the nuances of this artwork. "The Great Wave" serves not only as a masterpiece of Japanese art but also as an emblem that resonates globally; it reflects the historical and cultural transformations shaping Japan while epitomizing the aesthetic values of its time.
Overall, "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" stands as a powerful visual metaphor for the clash and convergence between the enduring spirit of Japan and the encroaching transformations influenced by external forces, marking both a cautionary tale and a hopeful promise of a more diverse future for the nation.
What Does The Japanese Water Wave Tattoo Mean?
Japanese waves tattoos have gained popularity as a means for individuals to express personal journeys, resilience, and growth through life's challenges. In Japanese culture, waves, known as 'Seigaiha' (the wave of the blue ocean), symbolize harmony, peace, and perseverance. The meanings of these tattoos extend from power and strength to a deep connection with nature. Among various Japanese tattoo designs, the wave tattoo is notable for its elegance and depth, embodying the ebb and flow of life.
In this art form, waves are depicted with graceful curves and dynamic movement, reflecting Japan's rich cultural heritage. Japanese water tattoos often infuse a sense of depth and motion into designs, adding to their allure. Frequently, waves serve as a background or filler within larger traditional tattoos, skillfully complementing prominent images like koi fish and dragons, which symbolize life’s obstacles.
The significance of a Japanese wave tattoo derives from its representations: it embodies strength and resilience, akin to nature’s indomitable forces. These tattoos encourage wearers to face challenges with the tenacity of the ocean’s waves. Notably, a popular design draws inspiration from classic artworks, further enriching its cultural narrative.
The symbolism inherent in wave tattoos extends to themes of adaptability, purity, and transformation. Waves can symbolize the duality of nature – destructive yet also life-giving. Each design tells a unique story, illustrating the challenges of life and personal evolution. Thus, a Japanese wave tattoo serves as a versatile emblem, representing nature's power, freedom, unpredictability, and the ever-changing nature of existence.
In summary, Japanese wave tattoos are profound symbols reflecting life's complexities, encouraging transformation and connection to nature while celebrating resilience and strength through art.
What Does A Japanese Sea Tattoo Mean?
Japanese water tattoos extend beyond mere aesthetics, embodying qualities such as strength, life, and fluidity. These attributes resonate with the challenges many face in life, serving as symbols of resilience and adaptability. For those who don these tattoos, the swirling patterns often evoke nostalgia for the sea and a connection to their heritage, reflecting a deep reverence for nature's power. In Japanese culture, waves symbolize both strength and resilience, reminding wearers to approach life's obstacles with determination akin to the ocean's might.
The significance of Japanese wave tattoos varies dramatically depending on the accompanying imagery. These tattoos represent not only beauty but also power, with graceful curves and dynamic movement steeped in cultural meaning. The renowned Great Wave of Kanagawa tattoo embodies deep cultural significance, illustrating the flowing nature of life and its challenges. Japanese wave tattoos often signify the ebb and flow of existence, capturing the essence of life’s journeys.
Commonly seen alongside connecting motifs such as koi fish, dragons, and flowers, these tattoos can serve as filler in larger works, enhancing the overall narrative. They reflect personal strength and the wearer’s capacity to rise above adversity. Water symbolizes life universally, with constant motion represented by waves illustrating change and progress in personal journeys.
Rich in mythological and folkloric references, Japanese tattoos often convey themes of protection, bravery, and good fortune. The water element is also associated with purification and renewal, believed to wash away impurities and encourage positive transformations. Many individuals embrace these designs as symbols of overcoming challenges, likening their journeys to navigating through turbulent waters.
While traditionally, elements like wind and water are distinctive, instances exist where they contrast, such as depicting a dragon (water) alongside a tiger (wind). Japanese tattoos are culturally significant, capturing the essence of beautiful, fearsome, and mystical creatures. The male-associated koi embodies courage, strength, and determination. Ultimately, Japanese wave tattoos exemplify motion, unwaveringly traveling through the tides of time and representing life’s fluid nature, complemented by expansive black and grey backgrounds that evoke elements like water, wind, and clouds.
What Is A Black Japanese Wave Tattoo?
The Black Japanese Wave Tattoo is a striking design ideal for monochromatic tattoo enthusiasts. It employs dynamic lines and intricate shading, utilizing black and gray tones to enhance contrast and depth, imparting a sense of movement that symbolizes motion and change. This tattoo style, known as "Irezumi," has gained popularity among water sports lovers, effectively illustrating the ocean's power and beauty through strong, dynamic imagery.
A classic rendition of the black and white Japanese wave tattoo captures the sea's raw strength, featuring deep contrasts and bold lines, which lends it a timeless appeal. From bold traditional designs to detailed black and gray realism, each wave tattoo embodies a unique visual language that reflects individual personality and aesthetic taste. Hokusai-inspired designs further highlight this art form's beauty, showcasing the mesmerizing essence of ocean waves through intricate patterns.
Notably, black and red are the predominant colors in traditional Japanese tattoos, often covering large areas while allowing for varied color accents. Common motifs include koi fish and dragons, symbolizing life’s challenges. One of the most beloved designs is based on famous artwork, proving the allure of a beautifully executed Japanese wave in black ink is both cost-effective and painless.
The allure of Japanese wave tattoos lies in their blend of ancient tradition and modern artistry. They encapsulate profound symbolic meanings, diverse styles, and opportunities to create individualized masterpieces. By exploring various oceanic ink ideas, enthusiasts can immerse themselves in this art form. Japanese wave tattoos stand as a testament to the deep bond between humanity and nature, offering inspiration for countless designs, while available royalty-free images allow for creative exploration. With endless options, these tattoos invite all to celebrate the beauty of the sea.
What Is Japanese Wave Art?
Japanese wave art, particularly the iconic "Great Wave" by Katsushika Hokusai, serves as a significant source of inspiration for tattoo designs. This famous woodblock print, known as "The Great Wave off Kanagawa," depicts a massive wave threatening boats near Mount Fuji, symbolizing both the majestic forces of nature and the uncertainties of life. Many tattoo enthusiasts incorporate waves as embellishments in larger traditional Japanese tattoos, often accompanied by elements like koi fish, dragons, and flowers.
Hokusai’s work represents the Edo period, having been created in late 1831. It showcases the Japanese artist’s mastery in using blue hues and innovative perspectives that make the towering Mount Fuji appear diminutive when juxtaposed against the wave. This dramatic imagery not only captures the essence of Japan's natural beauty but also reflects societal changes and life's journey, echoing themes of struggle and resilience.
The Great Wave's symbolic representation evolves further; the waves themselves can signify feminine or masculine principles, illustrating life's challenges that individuals navigate, much like boats on a tumultuous sea. Hokusai’s vast oeuvre includes nearly 3, 000 color prints and over 1, 000 paintings, marking him as a prolific figure in the ukiyo-e movement. His art continues to resonate widely, influencing tattoo art and symbolizing a timeless narrative of overcoming life's waves and uncertainties.
What Are The Most Popular Japanese Wave Tattoo Designs?
Japanese wave tattoos are inspired significantly by Katsushika Hokusai’s iconic painting, "The Great Wave Off Kanagawa," which exhibits a massive wave crashing near Kanagawa with Mount Fuji in view. These tattoos highlight versatility as they can serve as the main design (Shudai), a secondary motif (Keshoubori), or a filler element (Gokoubori), making them a popular choice among fans of traditional Japanese ink art. The dynamic depiction of ocean waves, characterized by expressive lines and vivid colors, is a hallmark of traditional Japanese tattoo styles.
Wave tattoos convey various meanings associated with nature, including the transience of life, strength, and power. Japanese wave tattoo designs embody the ocean’s fluidity and force, often through sinuous curves and motion. Contemporary and traditional designs alike communicate the beautiful yet formidable spirit of the sea.
Hokusai’s woodblock prints serve as a significant source of inspiration for many tattoo artists, capturing the essence of his flowing lines and swirling shapes, predominantly in shades of blue and white. In addition to artistic expression, these tattoos symbolize resilience and tranquility within Japanese culture. Collections showcasing stunning Japanese wave tattoo ideas continue to inspire individuals seeking meaningful body art.
As the Japanese wave tattoo remains one of the most popular designs, it's essential to explore various styles that resonate personally. Whether opting for a traditional design or a modern take, these tattoos encapsulate the deep-rooted appreciation of the ocean's beauty and strength. Enthusiasts can discover numerous designs and interpretations, further enriching their appreciation of this art form. Overall, Japanese wave tattoos not only present aesthetic appeal but also represent profound cultural meanings and emotions, connecting individuals to the ocean's essence.
What Does The Great Wave Tattoo Mean?
The famous artwork "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" illustrates the immense power of nature, serving as a reminder of humanity's connection to the environment. This iconic piece, created by Katsushika Hokusai, has inspired the Great Wave of Kanagawa tattoo, which holds profound cultural significance and embodies various meanings. Primarily, the tattoo symbolizes strength and resilience, resonating with many individuals who appreciate its deeper meanings.
Wave tattoos often evoke the concepts of fluidity and adaptability, representing the importance of going with the flow and embracing change. They convey life's constant movement, symbolizing wisdom and intuition. While wave tattoos can differ in cultural interpretations, across histories, they can signify resilience, fluidity, and life's ever-changing nature. In Polynesian culture, waves symbolize the cycle of life and death, while in Japanese culture, they are a common thematic element in both art and tattooing.
The most recognized Japanese wave tattoo designs are derived from Hokusai's iconic artwork. Generally, the meanings tied to these tattoos can vary based on individual perspectives or cultural contexts. Common themes include strength, the beauty of the ocean, and a reminder of life's transitory nature. Calm waves may signify peace in chaotic times, while crashing waves depict struggle and resilience.
Japanese wave tattoos also play a crucial role in large traditional tattoo designs, often used as filler between more prominent elements to create a cohesive visual flow. Individuals choose these tattoos for a variety of reasons: some see them as symbols of overcoming adversity, akin to navigating stormy seas, while others express their love for the ocean or the perpetual motion of life.
Moreover, wave tattoos capture the essence of life's ebbs and flows, linking the inseparable relationship between humans and nature. Each cresting wave tells its own story, grounding the wearer through cultural history and artistic expression. Ultimately, a wave tattoo can symbolize resilience in the face of life's challenges and a profound appreciation for both art and the powerful natural world. It serves as a reflective reminder of our place within the larger forces of nature, highlighting the harsh realities of life and our relative insignificance within it.
What Do Japanese Traditional Waves Tattoos Mean?
Japanese wave tattoos embody personal strength and resilience, representing the ability to navigate life's challenges. Water is a powerful symbol of life and the passage of time, with waves signifying constant motion, change, and the progression of individual journeys. Drawing from Japanese mythology, folklore, and art, traditional Japanese tattoos often incorporate motifs that reflect themes of protection, bravery, and good fortune, thereby narrating stories through visual elements.
These wave tattoos, inspired by Hokusai's iconic woodblock print "The Great Wave off Kanagawa," feature graceful curves and dynamic movement, imbuing them with significance within Japanese culture and history. While aesthetically pleasing, waves also serve as a universal representation of endurance and a connection to nature. In Japanese culture, the patterns known as 'Seigaiha' symbolize harmony, peace, and resilience during adversity.
Japanese wave tattoos often include elements like koi fish and dragons, representing obstacles and personal growth. Furthermore, in larger compositions, waves frequently act as filler elements, enhancing the flow of prominent designs, such as those depicting koi, dragons, or cherry blossoms. Each motif in traditional Japanese tattoos is steeped in meaning—dragons symbolize power, koi fish signify perseverance, and cherry blossoms represent fleeting beauty.
Waves encapsulate the duality of nature, reflecting both its beauty and potential danger, reminding the wearer of the delicate balance between chaos and tranquility. They accentuate themes of adaptability and strength, embodying the essence of life itself through continuous movement and flow. From ancient myths to contemporary interpretations, Japanese wave tattoos articulate narratives of resilience and the inherent connection to the natural world.
Ultimately, these tattoos stand as bold representations of life's journey, emphasizing qualities such as strength, fluidity, adventure, and a harmonious existence within the ever-changing currents of life. The result is a captivating blend of artistry and profound symbolism, making Japanese wave tattoos not only visually stunning but deeply meaningful in their representation of the complexities of the human experience.
What Is The Japanese Proverb About Waves?
Japanese proverbs, known as ことわざ (kotowaza), encapsulate deep wisdom and provide insights into various aspects of life. Among them, the proverb "A merchant's happiness hangs upon chance, winds, and waves" illustrates how happiness is subject to the unpredictability of life, akin to the movement of waves. Another noteworthy saying, "Life is like waves, and happiness rides the waves too," suggests that joy comes and goes, much like the ebb and flow of ocean tides.
Japanese proverbs often convey philosophical ideas, encouraging individuals to reflect on life’s transient nature. For instance, "小さな夢を大切にすると、幸せが広がる" signifies that nurturing small dreams can lead to greater happiness. The proverb "挨拶は時の氏神" highlights the importance of greetings in establishing connections and fostering relationships.
Additionally, some proverbs express practical life lessons. "Deru kui wa utareru," meaning "the stake that sticks out gets hammered down," advises that blending in rather than standing out may be advantageous. This exemplifies the cultural preference for harmony over discord. Other proverbs, like "Nana Korobi Ya Oki," translating to "Fall Seven Times, Rise Eight," emphasizes resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity, reinforcing the idea that obstacles should not deter one's spirit.
The narrative of Japanese proverbs is enriched by their poetic articulation of life's complexities, often drawing parallels with nature, such as the idea of soil hardening after rain, symbolizing growth following hardship. In summary, Japanese proverbs offer timeless insights that can inspire and motivate, urging individuals to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom, humility, and grace. They provide us with a lens through which to understand the intricacies of human experience, fostering a greater appreciation of life’s fleeting moments, encapsulated by concepts like "Mono no aware," which underscores the beauty of impermanence.
📹 The Great Wave by Hokusai: Great Art Explained
I would like to thank all my Patreon supporters, in particular Alexander Velser, Bria Nicole Art, David Abreu, Christa Sawyer Eric …
One of the biggest commodities at this time in Edo (now Tokyo) was fresh seasonal fish. You figure that Japan being an island would have all sorts of fish throughout the entire year, but it happens that the warm seasonal currents of the Pacifics would bring different schools of fish like mackerel and tuna at different times. The three intrepid boats in Hokusai’s The Wave are not fishermen, but teamster delivery boats that were known for their speed and bravery in facing the rough sea surrounding the island. The team consisted of 10 strong men, 8 rowing nonstop with 2 alternating and resting every so often. In the wood print, you actually can see the team rowing in the back of the boats and the two extra men resting in between the team and the precious cargo at the front of the boat. These boats were designed to cut through the giant waves and were airtight so that even if the waves would crush over them they could continue rowing through them. Needless to say that these men were considered to be the Dare Devils of the sea and idealized by common people. A perfect subject for Hokusai who was well known for depicting the working class.
I have a puzzle of the great wave framed in my bedroom and just finished reading a book on Hokusai himself. I’m still pondering about something he said: ‘Until the age of 70, nothing I drew was worthy of notice. When I reach 80 years I hope to have made increasing progress, and at 90 to see further into the underlying principles of things, so that at 100 years I will have achieved a divine state in my art and at 110 every dot and every stroke will be as though alive.’ I love this mentality of continuously growing and learning, because it shows that age is not a limit when it comes to developing oneself; quite the contrary.
I am truly impressed by the details of the water, the wave, the fingers on the edge of the wave, the droplets painted in the image. This great wave picture was featured in a show a photographer made. He showed super slow motion and stills of waves, it showed the details where just like “the great wave” painting. Details the naked human eye cannot see. But this amazing painter somehow captured them. Amazing
I had the pleasure of perusal a printmaker make a copy of the Great Wave, in all places, Singapore. He was part of a cultural troupe touring the region and I learned a few things: 1. The woodblocks and most of their equipment need to be made from specific old cherry trees that are becoming harder to find. 2. To preserve traditional arts, the govt provides a stipend to nationally acknowledged artists/craftsman. Unfortunately most of the masters are in their 80s/90s, coupled with low birth rates and very long apprenticeships (10+ years is common) very few young ppl are interested. The printmaker I met was in his 40s and considered young. The govt had to ask the old masters to accelerate the knowledge transfer.
Being a Japanese, I must admit a fact: I’m taken aback, although the most of the nation would share the sensation. This can’t be found in ordinary common knowledge of the public. An impressive content with awe sprinkled everywhere. Greatly appreciated for an elaborate work backed with wide & deep researches on top of a pick of Hokusai!
Hokusai gets inspired by Dutch paintings and imbues European techniques into traditional Japanese woodblock prints, then later Gogh gets inspiration from Hokusai’s prints, and imbues Japanese techniques into traditional European paintings… It’s just like all these people from different times and places having intimate conversations about each other sharing their life views. Art is so pure, profound and incredible.
Super summary, thank you! The only thing I didn’t hear you mention is the fact that Westerners interpret the image from left to right, but Japanese people interpret the image from right to left. This changes it from “giant wave about to engulf fishing boats” (Western reading) to “fishing boats approach giant wave” (Japanese reading) which is a subtle but meaningful difference. Nevertheless, great article!
“Art has a life of it’s own.” If this were a book, I would highlight this section. I never felt the threat in this print that the narrator talks about. Japanese until the modern era were always considered skilled coastal sailors. In this art, I’ve always seen the challenge between man and the sea. The danger — yes. The beauty and exhilaration of the sea — oh yes. The safety of land and the call of home (Fuji) — yes. But not the conflict of the times. I really appreciate the different perspective! Thank you!
This morning I saw a Georgia O’Keeffe painting of the mountain Pedernal in New Mexico. She was obsessed with painting it. Later in the afternoon I watched a short article on Cezanne’s obsession with painting the mountain Sainte Victoire. I end the evening with this painting and the artist’s paintings of Mr. Fuji. I knew the Impressionists were fascinated and inspired by Japanese art. And, I can see the progression now. I didn’t know the Japanese were inspired by the Dutch. What a full circle it became with Vincent. He was born in 1853, the same year Japan’s borders were opened. I just love the bread crumbs that connect the dots!
One of my favorite works of art since I was a kid and first was shown it on a slide projector in one of my English classes. This is a FABULOUS article. I appreciate seeing all the other works featured here, as well as the history. I always remember history so much more when viewed through the lens of art…it serves as an “interest anchor”!
I’ve known it’s a masterpiece and it’s awesome, but never know why it is so great. I might never have had a chance to acknowledge these artworks until I, fortunately, found this website. Thank you for sharing these precious pieces of stuff. The world needs art and beauty, especially now, during this devastating pandemic. And the people need art desperately to heal and find the right direction back to trace. Your work is honorable and it means a lot.
Being an amateur painter I really enjoy your articles very much. So much to learn and discover! I thought “The Great Wave” was a piece of modern art. What a surprise! I have still 7 years to go before “the real stuff” that’s worth bothering should come out of my paintbrush. So let’s get going 😉 Thank you for your articles!
“Japan’s self imposed isolation came to an end when a flotilla of fully armed ships sailed uninvited into Tokyo Harbor on behalf of the US government and demanded that the Japanese begin to trade with the US” So bringing “freedom” to countries is an old American habit apparently .. Great article as usual! Keep up the good work 🙂
Wonderful work. Thank you for the time you are sharing with us to produce these. My local art school has closed, in short because of the virus. So these are like my little slice of art history class and I’m so thankful for it. Know that your efforts are seen and are inspiring people who are excited to keep learning with you. Catch you on the next one ☕
I’ve been immersed in everything Japan for a handful of months now, and I am delighted to say this is the first article in your website I watched (jumped into the one about The Raft of the Medusa immediately afterwards, and saw there’s so much more I am keen to watch). I knew quite a few things about the Great Wave off Kanagawa, but I also learned so much more, especially about the artist and the process of woodblock printing. I subscribed immediately and will definitely be coming back for more! Your work is flawless, and the classical music makes things even better 💜
Thank you for this beautiful exploration. One interesting aspect of Japanese art is how the traditional tategaki (縦書き) writing system of vertical columns read from the right to the left affects understanding of images. In “The Great Wave”, the first seen right hand side of the image with the boats, mountain and smoother waves seems almost serene, but then the view shifts to the left hand side, dominated by the foam-topped huge wave. This of course ties in nicely with your note of a warning of an uncertain future. A western viewer might view it in the opposite direction, left to right, and thus only take in the boats and the mountain afterwards.
I find woodblock prints so fascinating, I recently went to the British museum’s new Hokusai exhibition with lots of his drawings that were not made into woodblocks, it was interesting to see the works in their original state, and knowing that it would have been destroyed in the making, however it did also make me wonder how it would transfer to woodblock, and what colours would be used. My favourite was two cats in hibiscus.
I’ve watched all your articles multiple times now, seeing this in my recommendations made my day! I’m especially looking forward to your Goya analysis. The ‘Third of May’ is an excellent subject, but you could conceivably create a whole series on his ‘Black Paintings’ alone, not to mention the Disasters of War, Los Caprichos etc. So keep up the great work, and bring on the Goya! 🙂
Hokusai has depicted the foam of the Great Wave as sharp claws about to seize the boat to the right, whereas he depicted the foam of the wave at the right to be more like a set of fingers supporting the boat in the best position for it to be devoured; the wave will crash down on the flat part of the boat and not be transfixed by the sharp prow. And, to emphasize the devouring, he has given the Wave a dark color and a set of ribs as if one is looking at the inside of the rib cage of an aggressive animal.
Went to the museum and overwhelmed by countless gorgeous paintings. That’s when I realized I needed to learn sth about painting or art. I wanted to get closer to the amazing works and know how to appreciate it. Thus, I think this article is really a great one and helps me a lot on learning to appreciate art from differents angles. Great work!
I love that you put Debussy’s La Mer playing over this article at the beginning. That piece is my favorite orchestral piece of all time and this work of art is also my favorite of all time. Debussy used it as the cover for his piece La Mer. Those two works of art will always be linked in my eyes. I absolutely love how you played the beginning of La Mer at the end 16:38, nice way to end the article.
Very interesting, but there are a couple of the things that maybe should also be pointed out. The “snow” coming down from the wave is showering on a second Mt. Fuji created by the waters, and not on the far away one. Also the dragon head coming out of the left part of the wave is an amazing way Hokusai continuosly hides to the observer things that are to be discovered only in later views. The dragon could symbolise China’s long time ambition to conquer Japan, or else it could be the dragon linked to Mt. Fuji’s mythology. In fact, previous to this work, Hokusai had done another “wave” with a red dragon coming out of it. Great article!!!
LOVED THIS !!! so I’ve been perusal this historical j-drama called Seiten o Tsuke and a lot of what you say in this article is covered there (not the painting but the Japanese fear and uncertainty of future!!) they even cover how they would get pigments and stuff, specially the indigo one and it’s a really nice drama, of anyone wants to learn more about this I truly recommend it!!
This website is so brilliant. As an art lover it’s so fun to just sit back and learn the details about some of my favorites arts and it’s exciting to know someone has enough passion to make this content, along with the knowledge that others are so invested in perusal and learning as well! Do you think you will ever cover Klimt? Or maybe John William Waterhouse? They’re some of my favorites!
Amazing, as usual. Fascinating and very informative. If I am not mistaken, after Japan opened, there was a strong enthusiasm for Japanese art and crafts. Aside from van Gogh, I can also think about Toulouse-Lautrec as an artist influences by Japanese woodprints. I am looking forward to the discussion about “The Starry Night”.
Oh wow, this is recently uploaded. Here I was thinking I found some old gem, but it’s a new gem. For some weird reason, due to work and research I cannot handle entertainment that last longer than 20min. And nonsensical youtube vids don’t do it either, they make me so restless. But this one just is calming and super interesting. I always wanted to know the story behind the Great Wave by Hokusai. Might have found a new escape website. 🙂 Not to bad to procrastinate with articles that actually teach you a thing or two at the same time. Thank you!
Thank you so much for your lectures. I saw a wonderful Hokusai exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, MA, several years ago. It included the Great Wave along with many of his other works. You have brought back to me the beauty and amazement I felt seeing Hokusai’s work along with the historical background of his country and the times.
I had the privilege of seeing one of his prints in person at the Asian Art Museum! THAT THIS was woodblock prints blew me away. So so so so much work. and then to see how western painters copied this style was mind blowing too. would have loved to hear about Hokusai from a Japanese. most famous works were made late in painters life. Looking back boy did they have reason to shun outsiders. Not one! but Two atom bombs!!
Hokusai is one of my favorite wood block print artists. The simplicity and yet exquisite detail in his works has always impressed me. Another favorite wood block print artist that others might appreciate who like this medium is Gustav Bauman who lived in New Mexico on 100 years ago and produced striking landscape images.
It’s inspiring that he did his best work — at least according to him — after the age of 70. This article helped me understand the wood block printing process. All around very informative. A bit of an aside, I wonder if Japan would have been better off if they’d remained isolated. Probably not because they would have successfully been conquered by nations with industrialized warfare. But there is something so appealing about a highly developed, pre-industrial society (mines the class system!). Van Gogh was certainly influenced by Japanese prints, which he collected, as you well know. But for me, personally, and subjectively, there are a lot of paintings by Van Gogh I would take over “The Great Wave”. But Vincent is my favorite artist, and closer to my own culture. Best if different individuals appreciated different art more than others. Look forward to your next article about his “Starry Night”.
It has been very interesting to learn so much about the art, and artist that so many years later has inspired T-shirts with an image of the Great wave of Ramen, or The great wave of coffee. While some purist may think of these things as insulting to the art, they have inspired me to appreciate and learn more about Japanese art.
I’m a newbie in art history and love this website! I was intrigued to the Great Wave (print) and the Starry Night, drawn to the energy and the vivid blue before I knew who the artists were. Didn’t know there was this link between Vincent van Gogh and Hokusai. I do feel that art draws out the raw, hidden emotions in people, it’s captivating.
I have only just found this website and will watch everything they do. I love art, know a little, but am learning a great deal and love it ! 😇 I had no idea that Japan closed itself off from the world for 2 centuries. What a great way to make your citizens paranoid for generations! 😨 The detailed work that goes into producing such superb pieces is breathtaking. Thank you. 🙏 M 🦘🏏😎
Amazing. I remember seeing comparisons between some of Herge’s art with Hokusai and other images from this era – they have a real cartoonish quality about them yet they’re still striking and quite evocative – some of the other works shown in this article are gorgeous – western comics and manga owe a lot to this style of art.
Love your explanations! As a person who rarely valued art, you are definitely changing my perspective and teaching me a lot. I do have one remark about this article. You seemed to have mistaken the meaning of life span and life expectancy, which in fact many people do. While Hokusai’s life expectancy might have been very low due to others that succumbed to bad living conditions of the era, it isn’t strange that he lived to such a ripe age. The most often mentioned example for this is the philosopher Socrates, who lived to 71 years of age, when the average life expectancy of the era was 25 – 35 years. Keep up the great work!
I enjoy the connection that you point out between The Great Wave and Starry Night. This is especially exciting to me as I had written a short summary that notes the exclusive trade relationship that the Dutch had with Japan until the American Black Ships arrived in 1853. “During the Sengoku (“warring states”) period, Japanese feudal lords were quite happy to trade with Europeans for firearms to gain military advantage over rival clans. After the Tokugawa shogunate unified Japan in the 17th century, substantiated fears of political undermining and cultural interference from outside polities, such as the Catholic church, would bring about a “locked country policy”. The Sakoku Edict of 1635 placed severe restrictions on international trade with bans on Christianity. Only the Dutch continued trade as they promised not to bring missionaries into the country. This trade was also restricted to Dejima, an artificial island and former Portuguese trading post in the harbor of Nagasaki.”
My dad when to trade fairs. He visited and travelled on the tain that passed your country great mountain the art reminds me of him. I love thier art and artist thier beautiful message in the art. The wave the people rowing for shore with the mountain behind. Strong and tall. They imagine beautiful made and match together wow take my breath away .
Fascinating. Loving your work James Payne! Thank you for sharing all your knowledge and love for art. Some of what you’ve taught I know from courses I’ve taken, but I’m learning new things also expanding my appreciation for art even further. I think your articles will help me on my watercolor journey as well, which I’ve begun in my retirement after not picking up a brush for almost 2 decades. It’s going well and I’m loving it over all the digital work I did as a graphic artist. Nothing like putting down a mouse and picking up a brush and watercolor. Blessings to you!
This was a wonderful article! I have a copy of the Great Wave and it was fascinating to learn more about it and Hukosai himself! One nitpick is the average life expectancy wasn’t 50, back then infant mortality was extremely high across the world and as such it brought the average life expectancy down. However if a child lived to be a teen, people back then could easily live into their 70’s, just like people nowadays
Oddly enough without seeing this article, I wrote a whole comparison between Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Hokusai’s Great Wave. Theo and Vincent actually collected thousands of Japanese prints including some of Hokusai’s. Basically Van Gogh was a Dutch painter inspired by a Japanese printmaker who was inspires by Dutch art. It goes full circle.
Your articles are brilliant! Thank you. So well researched and I’ve always needed a first point of access for such big art movements and subjects. By the way, one tiny thing you could do for your voiceover is add a pop shield (or a second one) to reduce the plosive sounds. Or, experiment with reducing the noise under 150hz. Some of those big Ps and Bs are really busting through the speakers! Thanks again
Hokusai says look carefully. He says pay attention, notice. He says keep looking, stay curious. He says there is no end to seeing He says look forward to getting old. He says keep changing, you just get more who you really are. He says get stuck, accept it, repeat yourself as long as it is interesting. He says keep doing what you love. He says keep praying. He says every one of us is a child, every one of us is ancient every one of us has a body. He says every one of us is frightened. He says every one of us has to find a way to live with fear. He says everything is alive — shells, buildings, people, fish, mountains, trees, wood is alive. Water is alive. Everything has its own life. Everything lives inside us. He says live with the world inside you. He says it doesn’t matter if you draw, or write books. It doesn’t matter if you saw wood, or catch fish. It doesn’t matter if you sit at home and stare at the ants on your veranda or the shadows of the trees and grasses in your garden. It matters that you care. It matters that you feel. It matters that you notice. It matters that life lives through you. Contentment is life living through you. Joy is life living through you. Satisfaction and strength is life living through you. He says don’t be afraid. Don’t be afraid. Love, feel, let life take you by the hand. Let life live through you. by Roger Keyes
This is the first pre-modern work of art that had me forget what I have been thinking about prior to the moment I saw it. I had spent more than half an hour pondering, and it was worth every minute. It is one of those masterpieces that you return to every few years for a different, maybe wiser, conversation.