Clifton Karhu "Hong Kong Boats" Woodblock (0IJ002)

Born in Duluth, Minnesota, Clifton Karhu was one of the most acclaimed American woodblock artists to work in Japan. Though the son of two painters and artistically inclined from an early age, Karhu joined the military. Stationed at the American Navy base in Sasebo from 1946 to 1948, he fell in love with Japan. Upon his return to the United States, he attended the Minneapolis Art School (1950-1952) before returning to Japan in 1952, this time as a missionary of the Lutheran church. From Hiroshima to Kyoto, he and his wife sold bibles until he became disillusioned with the mission. Settling in Gifu prefecture, he returned to art, working in oils and watercolor. Karhu’s reputation grew swiftly, winning first prize at the Middle Pacific Art Group Exhibition, and held his first solo exhibition at Shin Gifu Gallery. In 1963, Karhu moved to Kyoto. Immersed in the city’s vibrant artistic community, he began a successful career in woodblock printmaking. His self-carved and self-printed works portray traditional style houses and architectural details. Deeply expressive, yet precise and geometric, Karhu's style earned him enormous popularity worldwide. When asked about his medium, he states: “In Kyoto the vertical and horizontal lines of the tile roofs and the latticed windows strike a special harmony, like something alive. In my prints of Kyoto, I always strive to express this human warmth. Since wood accounts for much of Kyoto’s beauty, it may also be the best way that beauty can be expressed - through woodblock prints.”

Clifton Karhu "Hong Kong Boats" woodblock print. Numbered (63/100) lower left, signed and dated lower right. This print depicts a flotilla of boats on a green background. The piece includes two figures standing in the lower left. The bold geometric lines and vibrant colors make this an eye catching work of art sure to elevate any space. The piece is set on a white mat and held in a black frame. A beautiful work of art that's sure to add a Japanese style flair to any space.

Dimensions:

Framed - 14"H x 17.75"W

Art - 7"H x 10.5"W

This item is located at The Perfect Thing (161 Town Square, Wheaton, IL 60189). Shipping available for a fee. Contact Kate@theperfectthing.net for a quote. All items are previously owned and used, please see pictures for details. Pictures are provided to the best of ability. Factors like resolution, lighting, and coloration may affect detail perception.