Atsushi Uemura (real name Atsushi), a Japanese painter known as a leading expert on flower and bird painting and a member of the Japanese Academy of Art, died on the 1st due to old age. 91 years old. Born in Kyoto. The funeral and memorial service was held by close relatives. The main mourner was his second son Takashi.
I grew up in a family of Japanese painters. Her grandmother was Shoen Uemura, a representative painter of modern beauty paintings and the first woman to receive the Order of Culture. His father, Shoko Uemura, was also an expert in flower and bird painting, and was awarded the Order of Culture for three consecutive generations.
He graduated from Kyoto City University of Arts (currently Kyoto City University of Arts). At a young age, he was drawn to the beauty of birds and raised a large number of them at home. In keeping with this feeling, he created many works with birds as the theme. In search of Eastern symbolic spatial representation, which is different from Western paintings. He breathed new life into flower and bird paintings and was active as a leading artist. In 1995, he won the Japan Academy of Art Award for “Karigane.” In 2002, he was elected as a member of the Japanese Academy of Art.
In 2010, the 1300th anniversary of the transfer of the capital to Heijo, he completed the mural paintings of the four gods, including Suzaku, and the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac, in the restored Daigokuden on the ruins of Heijokyo in Nara. City. He also worked on the original drawings for the stage curtains at the Kabukiza Theater in Tokyo, which opened in 2013. The same year, he was selected as a Person of Cultural Merit.
He was a professor and vice president of Kyoto City University of the Arts. He was also director of the Shohaku Art Museum (Nara City), which houses the works of three generations of the Uemura family, and chairman of the Soga Society. He was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun with Ribbon in 2000, and the Order of Culture in 2012. Among his main works are “Shin”, “Four Seasons on the Waterside”, “Four Seasons of Flowers and Birds” , and “Moon Shore”.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Art Expert on the Legacy of Atsushi Uemura
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re delving into the legacy of Atsushi Uemura, a renowned Japanese painter who recently passed away at the age of 91. Joining us is Dr. Haruki Nishida, an art historian and expert in traditional Japanese painting. Thank you for being here, Dr. Nishida.
Dr. Nishida: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss the remarkable life and contributions of Atsushi Uemura.
Editor: Atsushi Uemura was a significant figure in the world of flower and bird painting. Can you tell us about what makes this genre so special in Japanese art?
Dr. Nishida: Absolutely. Flower and bird painting, or “Kachō-e,” is deeply rooted in Japanese aesthetics. It not only showcases nature’s beauty but also reflects philosophical and spiritual meanings. Artists like Uemura masterfully captured the delicate interactions in nature, allowing viewers to experience serenity and appreciation for the world around them. Uemura’s work was particularly notable for its intricate details and vibrant colors, engaging the viewer in a dialogue with the natural world.
Editor: Uemura came from a lineage of esteemed artists. Can you shed some light on his family’s influence on his work?
Dr. Nishida: Certainly. Atsushi Uemura was born into a prestigious family of painters, which included his grandmother, Shoen Uemura, who was groundbreaking in her right as one of the first women to receive the Order of Culture. His father, Shoko Uemura, was also celebrated for his contributions to flower and bird painting. Growing up in such an environment undoubtedly shaped Atsushi’s artistic approach and sense of responsibility towards preserving and advancing this traditional art form. He was the third generation in his family to receive the Order of Culture, which speaks volumes about his mastery and influence in the field.
Editor: It seems like Uemura’s work transcended mere aesthetics and engaged with cultural heritage. How do you think his legacy will impact future generations of artists?
Dr. Nishida: Uemura’s legacy is profound. He not only leaves behind a stunning body of work but also a set of values rooted in tradition, technique, and respect for nature. Future artists can draw inspiration from his commitment to authenticity and his exploration of themes in Kachō-e. By continuing to innovate within the framework of traditional Japanese painting, they can honor his legacy while also evolving it. Uemura’s approach will encourage upcoming artists to find their own voice while paying homage to their artistic heritage.
Editor: It’s certainly a challenging task to balance tradition with innovation. As we wrap up, what message do you think Uemura would want to communicate to new artists today?
Dr. Nishida: I believe he would encourage them to embrace both the richness of tradition and the freedom of personal expression. Uemura often sought to bridge the gap between historical techniques and contemporary perspectives. His passion for nature and his dedication to mastering his craft would serve as an inspiration to not shy away from exploring and interpreting art in ways that resonate with today’s society.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Nishida, for offering such insightful perspectives on Atsushi Uemura’s life and impact. His contributions to art and culture will surely resonate for many years to come.
Dr. Nishida: Thank you for having me. It’s essential to keep discussing and celebrating the lives of artists like Uemura.
Editor: Indeed it is. That’s it for today. Join us next time as we continue to explore the stories behind influential figures in art and culture.