Saeki Yūzō

Place: Osaka

Born: 1898

Death: 1928

Biography:

Saeki Yūzō was a Japanese painter, noted for his work in developing modernism and Fauvist Expressionism within the yōga (Western-style) art movement in early twentieth-century Japanese painting. Born in Osaka, Japan in 1898, Saeki's artistic career was marked by a unique blend of traditional Japanese techniques and Western influences.

Early Life and Training

Saeki's interest in art began at an early age, and he imitated the Impressionist style Kuroda Seiki while learning art in middle school. He moved to Koishikawa (now part of Bunkyō in Tokyo) in 1917 to study art under Takeji Fujishima and enrolled in the western art department of the Tokyo School of Fine Arts in 1918. This exposure to Western art techniques would later influence his development as a Fauvist Expressionist painter.

Career and Influences

In summer 1924, Saeki moved to France with his wife and daughter, where he attended the Académie de la Grande Chaumière in Paris. It was during this time that he met Maurice de Vlaminck, a Fauvist painter who strongly influenced Saeki's technique. Saeki's paintings, such as Portrait of a Woman and Street Scene in Paris, showcased his ability to capture the essence of modern city life. Saeki's work was also influenced by other notable artists, including Vincent van Gogh and Maurice Utrillo. His paintings often featured bold colors and expressive brushstrokes, characteristic of the Fauvist style. In 1925, two of his works were accepted by the Salon d'Automne, a prestigious art exhibition in Paris.

Awards and Recognition

Upon his return to Japan in 1926, Saeki formed an artists' society called "1930-nen Kyokai" (Society of the Year 1930) with other artists returning from France. The same year, he won the Nika prize at the 13th Nikaten, an exhibition held by The Second Society in opposition to the more conservative, government-sponsored Bunten exhibition.

• Fauvist Expressionism: Saeki's unique blend of traditional Japanese techniques and Western influences.
• Yōga (Western-style) art movement: A significant influence on Saeki's development as a painter.
• Académie de la Grande Chaumière: The Parisian art school where Saeki honed his skills.

Legacy and Selected Paintings

Saeki's legacy can be seen in his selected paintings, including Portrait of a Woman and Street Scene in Paris. These works showcase his ability to capture the essence of modern city life. For more information on Saeki's life and work, visit the Kuroda Seiki on Wikioo.org or the Takeji Fujishima. The Yuzo Saeki Atelier Memorial Hall in Tokyo also features an overview of his life and copies of his works. Saeki's contribution to the world of art is a testament to his innovative spirit and dedication to his craft. As a pioneer of modernism and Fauvist Expressionism, he paved the way for future generations of artists to explore new techniques and styles.