Chicago Gallery
SEMINAR
Bright Lights, Big City:
The Art of Modernism in Japanese Woodblock Prints
Saturday, February 25, 2012, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
DESCRIPTION
Closed off for centuries, Japan’s ports were opened to Western trade in the mid-19th century. From this opening until the mid-twentieth century, Japan experienced an unprecedented expansion. Western technology and cultural values became interwoven with Japanese society. This transformation inspired Japanese artists to create work that illustrated astounding technological advances while capturing the psychological toll modernity imposed on society.
This seminar will examine the early period of modern Japanese prints, from 1904 to 1959. We will discuss the themes of westernization, modernism, and militarism, as well as the sociological concerns of urban planning, identity and gender. Participants will have a rare opportunity to examine original prints that are often only seen in books or behind museum glass. This seminar is complimentary, but reservations are required; please contact Elias Martin at 312-587-7800.