Futagawa 1906

This print, Futagawa, was made by Utagawa Hiroshige in the mid-19th century using woodblock printing. It’s like he’s captured a fleeting moment, a snapshot of everyday life on the road. The colour palette is muted, almost monochrome, which gives it a timeless quality. What strikes me is how Hiroshige uses line to create depth and texture. Look at the hillside, covered in tiny, delicate strokes that suggest foliage. Each mark feels intentional, like he's carefully considered every detail. And the figures in the foreground, with their bundles and walking sticks, are rendered with such simple, elegant lines. The way the trees frame the scene is interesting too. They’re not just there for decoration; they seem to guide our eye, drawing us into the landscape. This print reminds me of the work of Agnes Martin, who also used repetition and subtle variations to create a sense of calm and contemplation. Like Martin, Hiroshige shows us that art is a process of discovery, a way of seeing the world with fresh eyes.