Sea of Cuba 

"Sea of Cuba" was made by Fukushima Ichiro using the labor-intensive technique of woodblock printing. The image is built from multiple layers of color, each requiring a separate carved block. This process, known as *mokuhanga* in Japan, demands precision and skill, as the artist carefully registers each block to create the final composition. The resulting print has a tactile quality, with the grain of the wood subtly visible beneath the ink. The deep blues and blacks evoke the power and depth of the ocean, while the contrasting light blue captures the movement and energy of the waves. Notice how the artist has used simple shapes and lines to create a sense of depth and perspective, drawing the viewer into the scene. The aesthetic reflects a synthesis of Japanese and Western influences. Consider the amount of work involved in this production process. The carving, inking, and printing, all done by hand, imbue the artwork with a human touch that is often absent from mass-produced images. It reminds us that the value of art lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in the labor and skill of the artist.