Playing Cards - Fuku Zukushi 1901

This woodblock print, ‘Playing Cards - Fuku Zukushi’ was created by Yōshū Chikanobu. It's hard not to think about the artist making marks, one at a time, patiently layering colors to build up the scene. It feels like stepping into a quiet moment, where the world outside fades away. The players are deep in concentration. I imagine Chikanobu, carefully carving each line, deciding where to let the light in and where to keep things shadowy and mysterious. I love the use of warm colors. The orange sky with the waves in the background makes you feel like you are in a dream. Gestures communicate feeling here. The candle light flickering, the shadow on the window. These subtle but powerful elements carry so much of the story. Chikanobu has a beautiful way of showing everyday life, reminding us that beauty can be found in the simplest moments. Artists are constantly in conversation with one another. We learn, steal, and riff off of each other's ideas. It’s how art evolves and stays alive.