Nieuwe zee der kunsten - 31 Possibly 1905

Furuya Kōrin made this small book cover at the turn of the century, full of promise, with graphic lines and a limited palette. I wonder what Kōrin was thinking about when he made this. I imagine him in his studio, carefully preparing the paper, mixing the inks. The waves are rendered with such gentle horizontal gestures, with rhythmic movement and a subtle variation in tone. They feel like the ebb and flow of artistic expression, a metaphor for the constant exploration and innovation within the art world. The stylized snowflakes, scattered across the cover, suggest the unique, individual contributions of artists, each one distinct, delicate, and beautiful. I see a dialogue between tradition and modernity, a desire to capture the essence of nature while also embracing new forms of artistic expression. The overall effect is serene, contemplative, inviting viewers to dive into the ‘New Sea of Arts’ and experience the wonders that await. Kōrin's work reminds us that art is a journey.