Japanese Masters of Mezzotint

HAMANISHI, Katsunori (b. 1949), Setsugo, 1978, mezzotint, Loan from the Collection of Ken and Kiyo Hitch

Through November 28, 2004

Sensual and dramatic masterpieces by Hamaguchi (1909-2000) and Hamanishi (b. 1949), on loan from the collection of Ken and Kiyo Hitch, exemplify how these internationally-acclaimed artists have elevated the traditional European mezzotint medium to a new height of creative expression. Their mezzotints display tones ranging from deepest black to white and the selective use of rich colors, endowing subjects with extraordinary meaning. Hamaguchi celebrated the delicate beauty of the vessels, fruits, vegetables, and insects that he appreciated while living in France. Hamanishi is attracted to sources of original purity and riddle-like patterns: constructed objects and natural forms of elemental shapes are cryptically linked or juxtaposed as they emerge out of darkness.

Related Events

Opening Reception
Friday, September 10, 5-8PM
Enjoy viewing the exhibition of Hamaguchi's and Hamanishi's mezzotints along with art lovers. Light hors d'oeuvres, and a cash bar. Free for members, general admission for non-members. No RSVP necessary.

Katsunori Hamanishi

Mezzotint Demonstration Workshop with Katsunori Hamanishi
Sunday, September 12, 1-3PM
The internationally known artist Katsunori Hamanishi demonstrates his mezzotint techniques, including the application of gold leaf to a printed work. Don't miss the opportunity to learn from this Japanese master. $13 members; $15 non-members. Space is limited. Call 508.799.4406, x3007 to register

Members' Tour and Supper
Thursday, September 23, 5:30-8PM
Join Louise E. Virgin, curator of Asian art, and David Acton, curator of prints, drawings and photographs, for a special tour of Japanese Masters of Mezzotint: Yozo Hamaguchi and Katsunori Hamanishi. Dinner follows. $20 per person; guests welcome. RSVP by September 21 by calling 508.799.4406, x3122

History of Mezzotint
Thursday, October 14, 6:30PM
Learn about the history of the mezzotint medium with artist and art historian, Carol Wax, author of The Mezzotint: History and Technique. Explore the process of this print medium, and trace its history from its earliest documentation in 1642 to the contemporary works of Hamaguchi and Hamanishi. Free for members; $8 non-members.

Select Images from the Exhibition

This project is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art.