Masterpieces of Tsukioka Yoshitoshi

Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) is regarded as one of the most important Japanese printmakers of the 19th century. Trained originally as a student of Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797-1861), Yoshitoshi broke new ground in composition, subject matter and technique in woodblock printing. The wide range of work in Masterpieces of Tsukioka Yoshitoshi demonstrates the range of his creativity and draws attention to the critical relationships the artist shared with his publishers throughout his career as well as the effect of market forces on his work.

The Meiji period (1868-1912) was a period of dynamic intercultural exchange and economic expansion in Japan , which is clearly reflected in Yoshitoshi's work. Depictions of steam locomotives and European dress show a new cultural landscape, and his compositions bristle with hyper energy, distinctive shading and perspective. Other subjects include demons, ghosts, warriors, supernatural animals, popular Kabuki actors and well-known beauties, which have contributed to his ongoing popularity.

Masterpieces of Tsukioka Yoshitoshiis on view concurrently with two other exhibitions exploring intercultural exchange between  Japan  and the West. Gajin Fujita:Ukiyo-e in Contemporary Painting, through October 7, is the first solo museum exhibition on the west coast of the Japanese-American artist Gajin Fujita, whose unique combination of traditional technique and street art speaks to similar themes as Yoshitoshi's work. Kimono in the 20th Century, on view through March 10, 2013, examines Art Deco and Jazz influences, among others, in the design of mid-century kimono and accessories.

This touring exhibition is organized by Chris Uhlenbeck and accompanied by the catalogue Yoshitoshi: Masterpieces from the Ed Freis Collection, Hotei Publishing, 2011. The exhibition at  Pacific   Asia   Museum  is supported by Toyota Financial Services, the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, Sid and Betsey Tyler, and Roy and Maurine Oban.