Breath of Japan Bilingual edition

The publication presents large-format works by 14 Japanese artists that fascinate us with their aura of mystery. These impressive works, created between the 1950s and the present day, fuse poetry, penmanship and painting to produce an aesthetic which also inspires the Western world. How can we visualize the interpretation of a wise Zen aphorism, a haiku or a description of nature? Some 30 artworks by Japanese Sho artists focus on the close relationship between image and writing, painting and poetry. In the dance of the paintbrush as the China ink is applied to the paper we experience dynamism, rhythm and artistic shading. Thoughtful essays decode the sign language, calligraphy and penmanship as well as the aura of universality of the lavishly illustrated works.

About the Author

Heinz Kroehl was professor for communication and design theory at the University of Duisburg/Essen. His previous books include The Art of Writing.Hans Bjarne Thomsen is chair for East Asian art history at the University of Zurich. His previous books include Japanese Woodblock Prints from the Ernst Grosse Collection.