Non-Western Art: The Nihonga Movement
Nihonga Nihonga is a Japanese art movement that developed in 1882 and continues to this day. During the Meiji period (1868-1912) “Japan had opened up its trade borders for the first time in over two centuries” (The Art Story) causing a push in the direction of more modern and western styles of art. Nihonga artists wanted to preserve the heritage and traditions of classical Japanese paintings, resulting in a refurbished form of this classic style. One of the main characteristics of Nihonga is remaining tied to the ancestral roots. This can be seen by how artists will use all natural materials, such as natural stones and silk, wood, or washi paper. Another major characteristic is the mixing of natural mineral pigments with animal glue, this remains unchanged through the years as it is central to the Japanese tradition. Three fantastic artists within this movement are Hashimoto Gahō, Hishida Shunsō, and Gyoshū Hayami. Nihonga honored the classical style of Japanese painting whil