Japanese art and Yuzo Saeki: a stunning flower which died too young

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Yuzo Saeki was born in 1898 and died in 1928 at the tender age of 30 but despite his short time on this earth he left a rich legacy. He was born in Osaka which is a vibrant city in Japan and from an early age he was besotted by art. His father was a Buddhist priest and with all the changes taking place in Japan during the Meiji and Taisho era then this was a great time to experiment with different art styles.

In the Edo period the rich traditions of art from China and Korea maintained its vitality despite major restrictions being imposed on the people of Japan during this period of history. However, influences from other nations did creep into Japan and this notably applies to art from Holland because of “a window” which was kept open in Nagasaki. Therefore, before the Meiji Restoration of 1868 many artists in Japan had been influenced by artists from Western nations and in time many European artists would become influenced by Japanese art.

Another great artist called Ito Shinsui (1898-1972) was also born in 1898 like Yuzo Saeki and both artists produced stunning art. Ironically, while poverty led to the start of a bright career for Ito Shinsui after his father became bankrupt, the other side of the coin would beset the final years of Yuzo Saeki.

Ito Shinsui had been forced to abandon school at an early age because of monetary problems but this led to his talent being unearthed after taking up an apprenticeship at a printshop. However, while poverty opened up a new world for Ito Shinsui the opposite would engulf Yuzo Saeki during a period of terrible health. Therefore, these negatives conspired together and at the age of 30 Yuzo Saeki died in destitution in a mental hospital in France. The culmination of tuberculosis, a nervous breakdown brought on by overwork, limited means to survive, still painting outside despite worsening health conditions and other factors; all led to a very sad ending of what should have been a bright future.

Yuzo Saeki died in terrible circumstances in 1928 and this was a far cry from 1917 when he moved to Tokyo and all seemed calm in his life. He had been influenced greatly in his early years by Kuroda Seiki and studied under Takeji Fujishima in the capital of Japan. Within a few years of living in Tokyo he would get married in 1921 to Yoneko Ikeda who also was a fellow artist. Therefore, this period of his life was on an upward curve and in 1924 he moved to France to further his career with his wife and young daughter.

However, while the move to France was an all too familiar path for many international artists in this period, it also could be a pitfall given the cultural differences and thought patterns of Japan and France.  Michael Brenson commented in the New York Times that “When European art began to question its own traditions, however, as it did increasingly during and after World War I, there was a potential for trouble. Artists could find themselves with neither a European tradition to learn from nor a Japanese tradition to hold onto. When Saeki Yuzo, who is perceived in his country as a tragic hero, the Japanese van Gogh, died at the age of 30 in an insane asylum in Paris in 1928 – perhaps a suicide – he had been trying to paint in this void. Saeki continues to be an example to Japanese artists abroad of the difficulties in reconciling East and West.”

Further down in the same article by Michael Brenson called “When Japan’s Art Opened to Western Winds,” he comments that “Saeki Yuzo went to Paris with his family in 1924. His paintings reflect his isolation. His cafe windows and stores are filled with signs, some illegible. In his ”Snowy Landscape,” figures are on the verge of illegibility. His signs seem like scars of an internal pressure to resolve a conflict between the independence and picturesque subject matter of Paris and a dependence upon his native calligraphic and woodcut tradition.”

These words by Michael Brenson highlight the major problems facing artists like Yuzo Saeki in this period of history. Also, given the climatic reality of worsening his tuberculosis, suffering from a mental breakdown and dying destitute in a mental hospital; then it would appear that his ultimate demise was part self-induced, part-tragedy, and fused with huge cultural differences and heavy demands which took its toll on both his body and mind.

Of course many bright moments must have happened in France because he couldn’t wait to return. However, ultimately many factors would conspire and his life would be cut short and people can only guess about what his real legacy would have been if the cards had fallen kindly.

Matthew Larking in The Japan Times comments in his final paragraph that “In France, Saeki was a progeny; in Japan, an innovator. Modernism was generally at the mercy of the culture looking at it. Saeki’s essential contribution, while very short-lived, was to usher in a period in Japanese Modernism that overthrew the pre-existing reliance on the Impressionist model and encouraged freer Fauvist Expressionism.”

However, despite all the artistic, political and cultural convulsions which befell Yuzo Saeki, along with suffering from tuberculosis, he still produced some truly amazing art. Therefore, the real tragedy of the life of Yuzo Saeki is that he didn’t have enough time to escape the trappings of two cultures which were pulling away at his artistic soul.

http://www.art.com/gallery/id–a228566/yuzo-saeki-posters.htm

http://www.nytimes.com/1987/12/25/arts/when-japan-s-art-opened-to-western-winds.html

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/text/fa20070301a1.html

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Korean International Style Show in Tokyo Jan 25/26/27: Fashion and K-pop

Michel Lebon and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

In Tokyo (http://www.mbcjapan.net/kiss/) the buzzing nature of Korean fashion and K-pop will be on show for three days starting on January 25. The “Korean wave” which is spreading internationally and growing in power in distant lands, will be on show in the ultra-modern city of Tokyo. Also, while the K-pop phenomena is internationally known because of the vibrancy of the younger generation in South Korea, this three day event will also focus on Korean fashion and show the buzzing nature of fashion in this nation which is rich in culture and history.

The event will be held at Yoyogi National Gymnasium in trendy Tokyo and this building is in walking distance of the amazing fashion district of Harajuku. Girls Award presents KISS (Korean International Style Show) and clearly everything is being prepared for a stunning fashion and K-pop event which will reverberate throughout Tokyo.

The Korean fashion angle is showing the natural extension of the vibrant K-pop music scene because both flow naturally together. More important, the fashion and music vibes of Tokyo, Seoul, Busan, Osaka, and other major cities in Japan and South Korea respectively, are in high demand and with the economic power of major international cities like Tokyo then these are exciting times.

Stunning models will also enhance the fashion vibes of South Korea. Also, the “Tokyo apple pie” and “Osaka apple pie” continues to attract amazing K-pop groups and soloists from South Korea. Therefore, this event will highlight the energy and vibrancy of fashion and K-pop and show the synergy of both nations.

Japanese fashion will also be highlighted despite the main focus being South Korean fashion. Also, Lumine which is adored in Japan will show the huge crowd why this department store is one step ahead. The mixture of Japanese fashion being in the background but providing a nice angle is a really nice touch and Lumine will express the trends within the Tokyo and Japanese fashion scene.

On the first day on January 25 high end fashion companies will be showing their latest trends and the elegance of South Korean fashion. This applies to Lie Sang Bong, Doho, Couronne, and Resurrection by Juyoung. Japanese fashion brands will also be on show and this applies to Dresscamp and Loveless x MCM.

The following day on January 26 will witness the buzzing South Korean fashion trends of Spicy Color, Mag/Mag (Magnificon/Magnificent), Who A.U. California Dream, and LAP (Los Angeles Project). Lumine will also compliment proceedings by showing the vibe of this amazing department store which is based throughout Tokyo. This day promises to be high action and will show a different angle to day one.

The final day of this three day event will highlight South Korean street fashion from the shopping mall Doota. This applies to brands which can be found in this trendy shopping mall in South Korea and brands on show will be Blooming, Gshopgirl, Senorita, Cres.edim, The Style, and Le Queen Couture. On the same day the Japanese fashion brand Guild Prime will highlight their latest products.

Of course the music aspect is very important and currently 33,000 tickets have been sold. K-pop groups on show include Kara, Girls’ Generation, After School, T-ara, CN Blue, Beast, Sistar, F-T Island, 4 Minute, Rainbow, Secret, and Infinite.

Kara, Girls’ Generation, After School, and T-ara, are often highlighted in the media in Japan because these stunning bands have enabled the “Korean Wave” to grow and prosper in Japan. BoA laid the foundation stone and this stunning soloist is still going strong because her recent track “Milestone” was full of emotion and passion. Therefore, for all K-pop lovers in Tokyo and throughout Japan, this is a great chance to witness amazing music acts from South Korea and to view the buzzing nature of South Korean fashion.

The three day event is a must for all individuals who adore K-pop and the fashion scene.

http://www.mbcjapan.net/kiss/ – Website for full details of the event

http://www.liesangbong.com/gb/index.php

http://www.whoau.com/engCover/index.html

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Tokyo tourism and Odaiba: backwater to fashion, architecture and ultra modernity

Sarah Deschamps and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

In Tokyo several places really stand out for being unique in style and this certainly applies to Odaiba. If this is your first visit to Tokyo then Odaiba is a must because of the stunning architecture on show. Also, if you travel by New Transit Yurikamome by connecting at Shimbashi Train Station, then your first view of Odaiba and the entire area will always stay with you because this ultra-modern transport system highlights the creativity of buzzing Tokyo. Therefore, in the modern period Odaiba is clearly on the tourist map and a must place to escape the madding crowds of buzzing Shinjuku, Shibuya, and many other high octane areas like Ikebukuro.

However, not so long ago this part of Tokyo was rundown and the future looked bleak. This is difficult to imagine given the trendy boutiques on show in several elegant shopping malls and the beach which is a welcome escape. Also, at night the stunning Rainbow Bridge is a treat in itself and the same applies to watching boats passing by with people enjoying life.

Yet in the early 1990s this scene was difficult to predict because the bubble economy meant that new hope for Odaiba seemed distant. Indeed the history of Odaiba is fascinating by itself because this part of Tokyo was constructed in 1851 to keep America and others at bay. However, the winds of change meant that this dream couldn’t be maintained because Western encroachment was spilling all over Asia.

It is somewhat ironic today that you have a Statue of Liberty based in Odaiba with its French roots. This iconic image for Americans and people all over the world is a little out of place in Japan and the same applies to the history of this district which was built to keep international trade at bay.

The next major push to alter Odaiba was a public park which was refurbished in 1928 and the remnants of this venture remains today with further modernizations. However, the real momentum for Odaiba was based on the success of the Expo ’85 which was held in Tsukuba. Therefore, with the economy being in full swing in this period and the success of Tsukuba, major plans were made to turn Odaiba into a futuristic city.

This applied to designing places for exclusive living, modern architecture, important business structures, and other relevant areas. Yet after the bubble economy much of the new planning appeared like one big disaster because by the middle of the 1990s you had many vacant lots, a minor population which couldn’t maintain Odaiba and other areas were still a wasteland.  Therefore, development was very uneven and far from being a showcase it was a remnant of over-spending and grand ideas which seemed out of place.

However, in 1996 fresh thinking emerged which laid the foundation for a buzzing Odaiba and this applies to allowing entertainment districts and commercial ventures. Within a short time trendy shopping malls were entering the scene along with hotels and large companies which would alter the landscape. This can be seen today by the iconic Fuji TV building which was a trendsetter and even today it is a famous landmark. Also, new transportation links opened up the area and the attractiveness of the seaside became a winner which would be connected with the park, trendy shopping malls, new entertainment ventures and other important factors.

In an earlier article about Odaiba by Modern Tokyo Times it was stated that “Odaiba is a major tourist area in Tokyo and the beauty of this place is that you feel that you are visiting a different Tokyo because of the beach, walkways, Statue of Liberty, and the colorful boats which light up the see at night.  Therefore, while Odaiba is full of life during the day it is also true that the atmosphere changes at night because of the stunning views of Rainbow Bridge at night.” 

“Odaiba is also a great place for romance because at night you will see many romantic couples walking hand in hand and you will often see people smooching near the beach area or on the beach.”

“The development of Fuji TV Building, Tokyo Big Sight, Telecom Center, and other futuristic buildings, all helped to create a new Odaiba.  Each new lavish development complimented Odaiba and by the end of the 1990s it was clear that tourism would begin to take off.”

In the Odaiba of 2012 you have many lovely boutiques to visit in Decks Tokyo Beach and Aquacity Odaiba. The boutiques are a mixture of Japanese fashion and international fashion and clearly many Tokyoites love to visit these fashionable malls. Also, in Aquacity Odaiba you have a major cinema complex and the wooden decks outside provide stunning views of Rainbow Bridge from various different angles.

Another great place to find elegant boutiques is Venus Fort which is designed like an eighteenth century South European town. The boutiques and restaurants in Venus Fort mix well with the stylish architecture. Therefore, the fashion aspect of Odaiba can’t be ignored and you have many conventions for cosplay and other trendy aspects of Japanese culture.

Tourists are also spoilt for choice because you have many tourist attractions and this notably applies to Telecom Center Area; Odaiba Seaside Park; Daikanransha Ferris Wheel; Museum of Maritime Science; National Museum of Emerging Science; Ariake Colosseum; Palette Town; Leisureland; Toyota Mega Web; Oedo Onsen Monogatari; Panasonic Center; Zepp Tokyo; and Tokyo Big Sight is a huge exhibition and convention center and the architecture is extremely bold.

In 2012 you have more grand designs in the pipeline and clearly Odaiba will continue to flourish. The beach is a welcome place to relax and Rainbow Bridge at night is truly beautiful.  Therefore, if you are new to Tokyo then Odaiba is a must place to visit because you will witness an ultra-modern area which is fused together with modern tourist concepts.

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3008.html

http://www.aquacity.jp/en/shop/fashion01_2.html

http://www.venusfort.co.jp/multi/index_e.html 

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Boutros Hussein and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

Islamists in northern Nigeria have killed more than 170 people in the city of Kano after many bomb blasts and gun attacks. It is clear that Boko Haram is not only increasing its violence but the sophistication of attacks also points to greater training and funding. This in itself shows the severity of the crisis in Nigeria because Boko Haram doesn’t recognize the current political and legal system of this country.

In recent months radical Sunni Islamists have attacked Christian churches, the security forces, local police stations, and any area which is deemed to be a threat to their power objectives. It is abundantly clear that members of this Islamist movement deem Christians to be infidels and worthy of killing and the same applies to Muslims who don’t support their draconian thinking. Therefore, Christians in northern Nigeria fear further attacks and the bloodletting threatens to ignite new flashpoints in other parts of this country.

In an article called “Boko Haram: Nigeria’s growing new headache” which was published by The International Institute for Strategic Studies, it was stated that “The increased sophistication of Boko Haram’s attacks may be partly explained by growing foreign support. There has been speculation – though without hard evidence – about interaction with al-Shabaab, the al-Qaeda affiliate in Somalia, including possible training of Nigerians. In August 2011 General Carter Ham, Commander of the US Africa Command (AFRICOM), said it was likely that Boko Haram had established contacts with al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and with al-Shabaab. He described this as, if confirmed, ‘the most dangerous thing to happen not only to the Africans, but to us as well’. In November, Algerian Deputy Foreign Minister Abdelkader Messahel said he had ‘no doubts that coordination exists between Boko Haram and al-Qaeda’, citing intelligence reports and common operating methods.” 

However, it is easy to play the “al-Qaeda” card but instead the focus should be on the trinity of the Koran, the Hadiths, and Islamic Sharia law. Muslims, just like Christians in Nigeria, don’t belong to one strand of thinking and Islamic clerics opposed to Boko Haram also face the threat of death. Yet, the methodology of Boko Haram does follow the path of Sunni Islamic radicalism in Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, and Somalia – and this applies to forcing terror against all and sundry who oppose an Islamic state based on Sharia law.

Also, while non-Muslim minorities are attacked and killed the same applies to killing fellow Sunni Muslims and different sects within Islam, for example killing Shia Muslims and so forth. Therefore, instead of linking the “al-Qaeda” bogeyman it is more reliable to focus on the binding reality that the trinity of Islam, the Koran-Hadiths-Sharia, was and continues to be used for supporting violence against all thought patterns which oppose this “limited worldview.”

In Nigeria the central government bowed down and allowed Sharia law in northern Nigeria to spread in power and for Christians, followers of Traditional Beliefs, secularists, moderate strands of Islam, and so forth; this didn’t quell the problem but merely inspired greater militancy. Not only this, it highlighted the fault-lines within Islam itself. Also, Saudi sponsored missionaries and training in Saudi Arabia further increased a limited world view of Islam which was based on being the sole power mechanism in Nigeria.

In Somalia, for example, where Sunni Islamic radicals are intent on spreading their Islamic inquisition and killing every single Christian in the country, it is clear that Arabization and outside meddling from the Middle East is altering the landscape. Therefore, Sufi Muslims in this country also fear the ongoing changes within Islam and the role of outsiders in spreading this indoctrination, which boasts of “purity” and “piety” while enforcing the sword on all perceived enemies.

The vast majority of Nigerians support a multi-religious and multi-ethnic society despite complex ethnic issues and other factors. However, in the eyes of Boko Haram they desire an Islamic state based on Islamic Sharia law and in their eyes the central government and secular laws have no validity.

Boko Haram also desires to spread sectarianism because this will further their view that they are the “Guardians of Islam” and not Muslims who support a united Nigeria. It is essential that Christians, Muslims, secularists, and people from all political persuasions who support a united Nigeria to stand up to this new tyranny. After all, if the “house is divided” then Boko Haram will be hoping to fill the vacuum.

http://www.iiss.org/publications/strategic-comments/past-issues/volume-17-2011/november/boko-haram-nigerias-growing-new-headache/

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

The Voice of Sendai and Ari TV: helping the community to overcome March 11

Michel Lebon and Lee Jay Walker 

Modern Tokyo Times

Ari TV (http://www.ari-tv.jp/top.html) is at the heart of Sendai and the surrounding region because this company is providing a positive image and covers local issues. This media outlet is determined to show the people of Japan and the international community, that while the March 11 tsunami took far too many lives and destroyed much of the infrastructure, it didn’t break the spirit of the people who were hit hard by this tragic event.

Therefore, Takayuki Sato http://twitter.com/#!/re_tohoku_en (Tak) and everybody at Ari TV are showing the determination of a region which is not only battling against adversity, it is doing so by focusing on the future and helping to bring fresh hope. Of course, every individual associated with Ari TV fully understands the pain and suffering which took place on March 11. However, like a phoenix rising from the ashes this media outlet wants to highlight determination, rebuilding, fresh ideas, a strong community spirit, and to show how tenacious the local people are in facing and overcoming such a tragedy.

In the photo above Tomomi Hama of Ari-TV visited a performance arts event called “Suzume Odori.” The event was held in Tokushima and Tomomi Hama highlights the fact that this city is a sister city of Sendai. Also, the people of Tokushima city have helped the people of Sendai and other areas greatly since March 11 and this shows the strong bond between local people.

The next photo highlights “Coming of Age Day” and this event is very important in Japan. Takano of Ari TV reports that 12,000 people attended this event in Sendai and that the atmosphere was electric. This image is extremely heartwarming because it shows the next generation of Sendai who need to be tenacious and play an important role in the future of the Tohoku region. Also, the image shows three beautiful ladies smiling in traditional costumes and they all look stylish and elegant.

In the next image (http://en.re-tohoku.jp/) above is the stunning view of Naruko and Ono, a director at Ari-TV, clearly adores this part of Japan. Therefore, Ono is clearly focused on showing this special place and a lovely video was done which shows many positive features. Given this, if you adore nature and want to refresh yourself afterwards by visiting Naruko Hot Spa, then why not take a break in Naruko and help the local economy?

The next photo (http://sjo-escuelaj.com/) shows children at San Jose Japanese School in Costa Rica. Mr. Kinya Morita who works at this school is showing the international concern for people who lost so much. Therefore, these children are expressing their love and warm feelings towards people whom they have never met.

In the image above are Ken Watanabe and Tomoyuki Takimoto who is a film director. Ken Watanabe is an internationally acclaimed actor and since the devastating events of March 11, it is abundantly clear that he shared in the pain and now he is involved in the regeneration. Shinichiro Takano from Ari TV mentions that both individuals have been touring around Tohoku in order to highlight the film called “Hayabusa -Harukanaru Kikan” which will be released on February 11, 2012, in this part of Japan. The host of the premiere in Miyagi was Tomomi Hama from Ari TV.

The following photo above highlights the tenaciousness of “Suzuki Farm Harvest.” It is clear that Tak from Ari TV was overwhelmed by such dedication because Mr. Suzuki fully understood that salt water had damaged the fields. However, he was adamant that he would overcome everything and local people gave him the support and help he needed. Like Tak comments, they “finally made it! Isn’t it amazing?”

These images highlight aspects of Ari TV and in another article about this media outlet it was stated by Modern Tokyo Times that “It is essential that Ari TV is supported because Takayuki Sato (Tak) and everybody at Ari TV desire to help the local community. Therefore, Ari TV is a lifeline to many people in Sendai and Miyagi prefecture and advertisement, sponsorship, viewing, and helping this company grow in many other ways, is needed because Sendai suffered greatly and this city is very powerful in the region of Tohoku.”

Therefore, please support Ari TV by viewing their websites and seeing daily images and videos of Sendai and the surrounding region. After all, Ari TV is the voice of Sendai and the calendar is also in English in order for the international community to view and read about recent events.

http://en.re-tohoku.jp/  Tohoku Revival Calendar – English Version

http://www.ari-tv.jp/top.html Ari TV 

http://ja-jp.facebook.com/people/Takayuki-Sato/100001843642568  – Please contact for more information.

http://twitter.com/#!/re_tohoku_en – Please contact for more information

http://suzuki-yuukinouen.blog.ocn.ne.jp/

http://www.re-tohoku.jp Tohoku Revival Calendar – Japanese version

http://www.hayabusa2012.jp/index.html

All images belong to Ari TV

Japanese art and Kawanabe Kyosai: the power of folklore and culture

Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The Japanese artist Kawanabe Kyosai is extremely fascinating because of his individualistic spirit and this is witnessed in his art. Kyosai, just like the mysterious Tengu, belonged to two worlds and this applies to the old Edo period and the modernization of Japan which began in 1868. The Meiji Restoration of 1868 was truly dynamic and revolutionary. Also, the center and periphery relations altered the status quo of the Edo period which relied heavily on stratification.

The Tengu also belongs to two very different traditions and highlights the power of Shintoism and the mysteriousness of this religion. Not only this, the Shinto impact on Buddhist thought patterns and traditions emanating in China were completely turned on its head. Therefore, the Tengu becomes part of the richness of nature within the Shinto faith rather than the dark demons of Buddhism and other faiths which highlight the power of evil. This fact also shows the power of Japanese culture and the indigenous faith of Shinto which could absorb different thinking and traditions.

Kyosai was born in 1831 and died in 1889 and the rapid changes in society clearly impacted on him. He was an individual who was independent in mind and thought and Kyosai expresses this through his art.

Kusumi Kawanabe, Director of the Kawanabe Kyosai Memorial Museum, comments that “This great artist has grown in stature as we have been able the better to get the Meiji period into perspective. He studied at an early age under Kuniyoshi and later under Kano masters, but eventually he went his own independent way. Essentially a nationalistic painter, he was nonetheless fully aware of Western art – indeed, he dealt with it quite broadmindedly in his book “Kyosai Gadan” published in 1887 – but he was robust enough not to succumb, as so many of his contemporaries did, to the blandishments of foreign styles, and was one of the last great painters in the truly Japanese tradition.”

The main focus in this article is to highlight aspects of Kyosai and link this with the Tengu and the underworld of Japan where mysterious creatures, spirits, and ghosts played a powerful role within the culture of this fascinating country. Also, it is clear that the outside influence of China and Korea impacted greatly on Japan. However, despite this the indigenous faith of Shintoism and other powerful aspects of culture would transform many of these new thought patterns and create a truly Japanese identity.

The yokai represent aspects of the mystery of folklore in Japan and the transformation of Tengu is also fascinating within the changing thought patterns of Japan. The yokai are creatures with supernatural powers and the Tengu are one of the most widely known monster-spirits in the land of the rising sun.

The Tengu have constantly gone through transformations in Japanese folklore and while early artists depicted the Tengu with beaks this changed in time and now the most distinctive feature is their long nose.

Within Buddhist thought patterns the Tengu were demons and it was believed that they were harbingers of bad times and this applies to war and other calamities.  However, within Shintoism the Tengu were sometimes worshipped as revered spirits (Shinto kami) which had magical powers.  Therefore, the Tengu also witnessed the fusion of aspects of Buddhism and Shintoism because in time their image changed into a more protective force.

However, despite this transformation the Tengu still had dark and dangerous powers and people in the mountains and forests had to tread carefully because of the several natures of the Tengu. This meant that local people couldn’t take the Tengu for granted and great respect was needed during visits to special shrines which highlight this mysterious folklore creature.

Kyosai certainly depicts the power of the Tengu and the mysterious features and nature of various types ofyokai.  Therefore, Kyosai is showing images of the old world despite the new reality of the Meiji period.

In Japanese history the Tengu went from demonic creatures into positive aspects providing care was taken and nature was at peace with the underworld.  For example if we apply this to children then in early Japanese history the Tengu were believed to abduct children. However, in later history this all changed because the Tengu became enlisted in searching for children who were scared and needed help quickly.

Another positive side of the Tengu is that their shape-shifting power applies to animal and human form and this meant that their attributes were powerful. Therefore, the Tengu used this in order to play tricks on arrogant Buddhist priests or people who abused their power.

In this sense, while the Tengu belong to Japanese folklore it could be said that Kyosai shared some characteristics and this applies to attacking political elites.  After all, Kyosai was known for being a political caricaturist and he often got in trouble with the law and the dominant political power of his day.

Kyosai was a free thinker who highlighted the richness of the spirit world in his art and Japanese folklore.

http://kyosai-museum.jp/ENG/about.htm

http://www.onmarkproductions.com/html/tengu.shtml

http://www.obakemono.com/obake/tengu/

http://www.robynbuntin.com/MoreByArtist.asp?ArtistID=388

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Japanese culture and traditions: Ikebana in history

Sarah Deschamps and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The history of ikebana (living flowers) is extremely fascinating because it tells us a lot about aspects of Japanese culture and how the different thought patterns can be seen in art. Ikebana is also known by the name ofkado (way of flowers) and in modern Japan it is abundantly clear that ikebana remains popular.

In Europe and North America flower arrangement is based on decorative forms and the cultural angle and the aesthetic side isn’t reflected like it is in Japan. This doesn’t denote that flower arrangement isn’t extremely beautiful in Europe and North America nor does it imply that extreme care isn’t taken. On the contrary, both styles have their own natural beauty and individualism can be felt more within Europe and North America because certain aesthetic aspects apply to ikebana.

Ikebana puts the emphasis on linear aspects unlike flower arrangement in Europe and North America which focuses on color schemes of the flowers, quantity, and the stunning beauty of blossoms, which immediately appeals to the eye. Japanese ikebana also encompasses the vase, leaves, branches, and stems, which work in harmony with the flowers on display. This in itself symbolizes a different thought pattern because this represents humankind, earth, and heaven.

The history of ikebana is extremely fascinating because it highlights the importance of this art form in Japan. In the sixth century (the oldest school of ikebana dates from the fifteenth century) it is apparent that the religious angle of ikebana was of major importance. Therefore, in this period ikebana was a ritual offering which took place in Buddhist temples.

During this period of Japanese history the branches and flowers indicated a firm faith because they pointed towards heaven. This fact clearly led to the aesthetic and religious aspect of ikebana in the early period.

In the fifteenth century a new style emerged called rikka(standing flowers) but in modern times this art form isn’t practiced so much. Rikka put the emphasis on nature because the river or a small stream was represented by white chrysanthemums. Meanwhile rocks and stones were represented by branches and with the power of nature in Shintoism and other thought patterns putting great emphasis on time and space; then rikka is easily understood within the thought patterns of Japan. This decorative technique was very popular in the seventeenth ceremony and was preserved for festive and ceremonial purposes.

Ikebana also changed dramatically in the fifteenth century because of Ashikaga Yoshimasa who was the Muromachi shogun. Ashikaga Yoshimasa was born in 1436 and died in 1490 but he revolutionized the art form of ikebana. This applies to his love of simplicity therefore within the new small houses being built the area called tokonoma became important. The reason behind this is that the tokonomaarea was an area to place flower arrangements and art pieces, which would create a nice ambience.

At the same time the rules of ikebana became more moderate and not so rigid. Therefore, ikebana now became more egalitarian because now people of all classes could create and see ikebana much more.

In the following century another change occurred in flower arrangement in Japan when a more simple style was introduced. This style is called nageire (to throw in) and became part of the tea ceremony. Like the name implies the flowers were arranged without any constraints and the look is natural. Cha-bana (tea flowers) is also another name for this concept because of the association with the Japanese tea ceremony.

Moribana in the 1890s created a new form of ikebana and on the Ohararyu website at the bottom of this article it states that this style was “Originated by the First Headmaster Unshin Ohara, this is ikebana where materials are arranged as if they are piled up in low flat containers with a wide surface area of water. It includes the Color Scheme Moribana, which expresses beauty of color, and the Landscape Moribana, in which the beauty of natural scenery is represented. In Moribana, as in Advanced Hana-isho, there are three principal stems – the Subject, the Secondary, and the Object. These stems form the basic framework of various styles. Intermediaries called Filler stems are freely added to the principal stems.”

Modern ikebana applies from the 1930s and onwards and this style is known by the name of zen’ei ikebana. Unlike the more classical style this form is more expressive and builds on the influence of new thought patterns entering Japan. The many changes of ikebana can also be viewed by the reasons behind doing this art form because in the past, along with the tea ceremony and calligraphy, all three art forms were linked to gender roles and preparing Japanese women for future marriage. Of course, in the modern period ikebana is still a traditional art form in Japan. However, this is fused with modern thinking and people study this art form because of multiple reasons.

The history of ikebana is very intriguing and if people want to learn more about ikebana and study more deeply, then the web-links below are designed to help.

http://www.ohararyu.or.jp/english/form_moribana.html

http://www.ikebanahq.org/history.php

http://ikebanabyjunko.co.uk/

http://keithstanley.com/

http://www.ikebana-today.com/en_ikebana_history.html

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Saudi Arabia, Sept 11 & no churches: never mind, more military sales from US and UK

Murad Makhmudov and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

International terrorism, the radical Sunni Islamic angle, and massive funding coming out of Saudi Arabia, is clear for all to see despite the continuing lambast of Iran. Indeed, the vast majority of individuals involved in September 11 came from Saudi Arabia and only Saudi Arabian funding schools have preached hatred towards Christians, Jews, and others, in the United Kingdom. However, despite this, and much more, the clattering of commerce outweighs everything.

Therefore, political leaders who only care about democracy when the time suits their political objectives, send innocent American and British soldiers to distant lands whereby many are killed or disabled. At the same time political leaders play the democracy and “shared civilization card” but under all the political manipulation both nations continue to pander to Saudi Arabia.

It matters not if the government is Democratic or Republican in America, or if Conservative or Labour in the United Kingdom – because the central theme of supporting Saudi Arabia remains the same. This means that elected officials in both nations abuse the political system in order to support the most undemocratic, gender biased, and hater of religious diversity on the face of this planet. Yes, this applies to Saudi Arabia which crushes all diversity and maintains a firm gender apartheid and religious system.

Astonishingly, despite the complete mass discrimination of Saudi Arabia this nation sponsors major Islamic networks throughout the world in order to spread conservative Islam. In return, the West and the non-Muslim East sells its soul and demands nothing in return. The upshot of all this is that not one single Christian church, Buddhist temple, Shinto shrine, Zoroastrian temple, Hindu temple, Jewish synagogue, and other non-Muslim places of worship like the Sikh faith, is tolerated.

More alarming, all male Saudi converts to Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, or to any non-Muslim faith, face the death penalty for merely leaving the Islamic faith. Also, from a gender point of view you have female apartheid because Saudi women are not allowed to own their own passports and to mix freely in society. Indeed, several years ago many young girls were allowed to burn to death because the fire services feared being punished for entering a female school. This all happens in the land of institutional hatred and where brave Saudi individuals face massive intolerance at the hands of the state apparatus.

Shia Muslims also face severe oppression and in many of the higher institutions of Saudi Arabia the followers of Shia Islam are denied full representation. At the same time the government of Saudi Arabia is helping the Sunni Muslim elite to clampdown on the Shias of Bahrain and many Shia followers have been killed by Saudi Arabian duplicity in Yemen.

Currently the leader of the United Kingdom is in Saudi Arabia whereby he hopes to “broaden and deepen” the UK-Saudi relationship. Of course, the relationship is all one sided because non-Muslims have no equality in Saudi Arabia and women, homosexuals, the followers of the Shia, face so much discrimination. However, the military expansion of this religious and gender apartheid nation will continue because of new enormous military contracts.

Recently, the ethical policy of the Obama administration was seen for what it is after announcing a 60 billion dollar military deal with Saudi Arabia. Clearly the leader of the United Kingdom will follow suit and announce another major arms deal with the most authoritarian and draconian nation in the world where religious freedom and gender equality is crushed.

The terrorist angle and September 11 should have woken many people up because the US and UK were involved in murky dealings in the past in Afghanistan, Bosnia, and Pakistan, to name just a few. Therefore, the CIA and other covert ratlines in the 1980s and 1990s were allies of radical Sunni Islam in several parts of the world because of so-called security concerns.

David E. Kaplan in his article called How billions in oil money spawned a global terror network which was published in U.S. News, commented that “The evidence was indisputable: Saudi Arabia. America’s longtime ally and the world’s largest oil producer had somehow become, as a senior Treasury Department official put it, “the epicenter” of terrorist financing. This didn’t come entirely as a surprise to intelligence specialists. But until the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, U.S. officials did painfully little to confront the Saudis not only on financing terror but on backing fundamentalists and jihadists overseas. Over the past 25 years, the desert kingdom has been the single greatest force in spreading Islamic fundamentalism, while its huge, unregulated charities funneled hundreds of millions of dollars to jihad groups and al Qaeda cells around the world. Those findings are the result of a five-month investigation by U.S. News. The magazine’s inquiry is based on a review of thousands of pages of court records, U.S. and foreign intelligence reports, and other documents. In addition, the magazine spoke at length with more than three dozen current and former counterterrorism officers, as well as government officials and outside experts in Riyadh, the Saudi capital.”

It is apparent that Saudi Arabian ratlines got away with September 11 and religious leaders in the West and non-Muslim East have been shackled by political governments and political correctness which is switched on and off at random. The outcome is that the nation of Saudi Arabia continues to fund conservative Islam to the tune of over 100 billion dollars since the mid-1970s in the non-Muslim world. However, not one Buddhist temple and Christian church is allowed in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, not surprisingly nations like the UK now have around 100,000 converts to Islam with the vast majority being followers of the Sunni faith.

Saudi Arabia for decades funded a major Sunni Islamization policy and more militant individuals sponsored global terrorism. The Al-Shabaab in Somalia doesn’t dress and behave in traditional Somali ways and militants in Northern Nigeria are spreading the sword to Christians and moderate Muslims.

Irrespective of everything, including inaction after September 11, ignoring the real facts before this event, continuing to ignore the real long-term objective of conservative Sunni Islamic elites in this nation, maintaining the threat of killing all apostates, gender apartheid, and other draconian realities – it is more military sales from the nations of America and the United Kingdom. The ongoing silence about the reality of Saudi Arabia refusing religious freedom, political freedom, and gender freedom, shames both nations and many others which also ignore this reality.

http://www.usnews.com/usnews/news/articles/031215/15terror.htm Terrorist network

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/1874471.stm Girls allowed to be burnt alive because they weren’t covered up – the reality of Saudi Arabia

http://moderntokyotimes.com/2011/12/19/siege-of-mecca-and-juhayman-al-otaibi-cia-and-gign-operatives-converted-to-islam/ - The Siege of Mecca and Juhayman al-Otaibi and CIA and GIGN operatives converted to Islam

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Tokyo fashion in Koenji: vintage fashion in this part of Tokyo

Michel Lebon and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

The ultra-modernity of Omotesando Hills with stunning boutiques is the usual image of fashion in Tokyo along with kawaii fashion in Shibuya and Harajuku. Then you have exquisite and refined fashion in Aoyama, Omotesando, Ginza, Ebisu, Yurakucho, and in many other parts of Tokyo. Meanwhile Shibuya is famous for the younger generation and Shibuya 109 is a rite of passage for many young Tokyoites and people who visit this ultra-modern city. While the individualism of Harajuku and kawaii culture is a huge pulling power. This notably applies to the iconic shopping mall called Laforet Harajuku and the fashion company 6%DOKIDOKI which provides a glimpse of the vitality of this fashion district. Also, other powerhouse fashion districts like Shinjuku and Ikebukuro appeal to fashion lovers and Marui One in Shinjuku is also a must place to visit if you adore Tokyo fashion.

Outside the main shopping districts you have elegant fashion areas like Jiyugaoka, Shimokitazawa, Daikanyama, and many other places like Nakameguro. However, in Koenji the fashion vibe is a million miles away from Marui One in Shinjuku, Shibuya 109, Omotesando Hills, and Laforet Harajuku. This is because Koenji is famous for vintage fashion. Therefore, if this is your cup of tea then clearly a visit to this district in Tokyo is a must.

In Koenji you won’t find the trendy buzz of Harajuku and the international appeal of this major fashion district in Tokyo. Nor like in Ginza you won’t see the crème de la crème of exquisite Japanese and international brands which are famous throughout the world. You also won’t find an area which is ultra-modern within the train station and connected like the high octane nature of fashion in Ikebukuro which can be found within the train station complex. This notably applies to Tobu Department Store, Lumine, Seibu Department Store, and Esola. Instead, Koenji provides a “bread and butter” part of Tokyo whereby everyday life can be witnessed.

However, while Koenji may lack the gracefulness of the above named parts of Tokyo and the ultra-modern architecture of sophisticated boutiques in Aoyama, Ginza, and Omotesando; the district is still a fashion hub in its own right when it comes to vintage fashion. Therefore, if you adore vintage fashion then Koenji is the place to visit and search around the many stores in this district. Not only this, you can feel the vibe of fashion lovers who wouldn’t swap Koenji for any other fashion district because of its uniqueness.

Also, if you want to view the latest photoshttp://kimoken.exblog.jp/ of daring fashion then the Kimoken website is the place to visit. This website shows a different side to Tokyo fashion and it is fresh, individualistic, well maintained, and an amazing website to visit when it comes to visual images of the many styles of Tokyo fashion. Also, unlike some other fashion websites in Tokyo which are purely commercial, you can feel the natural passion of Kimoken website  (http://blog.livedoor.jp/kimoken/).

It is difficult to state how many vintage fashion shops are based in Koenji but the number is at least around seventy to eighty. This in itself shows the power of vintage fashion in this part of Tokyo.

A partial list of vintage fashion companies in Koenji applies to Spank!, Safari, Yuri, Kuro Benz, Peep Cheep, Zool, Yakusoku, Bernet, Kiki, Jinjer, dai-dai, Chiruru, Sokkyou, Hikari, Mad Tea Party, Mouse, and Pheb, Vivid, Hoy-Hoy Station, Now Or Never, UK Extra, Re’all, and many others like Cord. Of course you have many other vintage fashion stores but this list is a guide to some of the stores in Koenji.

Of course each vintage fashion shop will cater for different areas. For example Peep Cheep focuses on 1960s clothing; Bernet is a must for ladies who adore leather bags; Re’all is great for shoes and stylish vintage jumpers from Ralph Lauren; therefore, the beauty of Koenji is that you have to discover these special vintage shops for yourself.

The Kita-Kore building in Koenji is also attracting growing awareness even in parts of the mainstream press despite being far from the glitzy world of Harajuku and kawaii culture. Therefore, if you want to feel the spirit of something new and daring a visit to this building is essential. Also, it is ridiculous for individuals to put labels on the Kita-Kore building like “London Camden” in its heyday before this part of London became rather stale. In truth, Kita-Kore is “itself” and this means free, experimental, vibrant, and pushing new boundaries when it comes to design and other essential areas.

Simply put, if you adore vintage fashion then Koenji will certainly be your cup of tea!

http://kimoken.exblog.jp/  Kimoken (fashion images and news)

http://blog.livedoor.jp/kimoken/ Kimoken (fashion images and news)

http://www.pheb.jp/ and Pheb

http://bernet.shop-pro.jp/ Bernet

http://chiruru.net/ Chiruru

http://ameblo.jp/cord1006/ Cord

http://daidaikoenji.blog56.fc2.com/ dai-dai

http://hoyhoy.shop-pro.jp/ Hoy-Hoy Station

http://ameblo.jp/greenlight-shoes/ Jinjer

http://kiki-kiki.ocnk.net/ Kiki

http://yaplog.jp/clobenz/ Kuro Benz

http://ameblo.jp/madteaparty-kouenji/ Mad Tea Party

http://ameblo.jp/mikamithemouse Mouse

http://usedclothingnowornever.blogspot.com/ Now Or Never

http://www.peepcheep.com/ Peep Cheep

http://ameblo.jp/realstep2/ Re’all

http://e-safari.co.jp/ Safari

http://www.sokkyou.net/ Sokkyou

http://spankworld.jp/  Spank!

http://uk-extra.com/ UK Extra

http://www.vivid-web.jp/ Vivid

http://www.e-yuri.jp/Page/TOP Yuri

http://zool.jp/  Zool

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com

Joachim de Villiers and Lee Jay Walker

Modern Tokyo Times

North Korea gave the go ahead for the Associated Press news agency to open a small bureau in the capital Pyongyang on January 16, 2012. This is a very important scoop for this news agency because it is the first Western based agency to open up a bureau in North Korea. Therefore, irrespective of the size of the new office it is a positive start and much needed.

It is unsure if Kim Jong-un, the new leader of North Korea, rushed up the process or if he is firmly behind supporting the move. However, it would be welcome if he supported this because it would be a positive sign that the new leader is focused on opening-up North Korea in the field of economics and other important areas.

Other international agencies have a presence in Pyongyang, for example Xinhau from China, but like it was stated earlier the new Associated Press bureau is the first Western news agency. However, it is clear that this move will be welcomed by Xinhau and other agencies because it will enable more coverage to reach the international community. This fact must be welcomed by all individuals who are interested in “the real facts and stories” in North Korea because the vast majority of articles carry little substance and are biased to an extreme.

It is understood that the new bureau will be supervised from South Korea and will involve two journalists from North Korea who will be based in Pyongyang. Associated Press opened a video bureau in the capital of North Korea in 2006 and clearly this laid the foundation stone.

Bridges in many areas need to be built between North Korea and the international community and this is a positive step. Also, it will be interesting to follow the news coming out of North Korea and how it is reported. After all, this will provide details about the real substance of this new venture.

John Daniszewski from Associated Press commented that “For North Korea, which for decades has remained largely off-limits to international journalists, the opening marked an important gesture, particularly because North Korea and the United States have never had formal diplomatic relations. The AP, an independent 165-year-old news cooperative founded in New York and owned by its U.S. newspaper membership, has operations in more than 100 countries and employs nearly 2,500 journalists across the world in 300 locations.”

“The bureau puts AP in a position to document the people, places and politics of North Korea across all media platforms at a critical moment in its history, with Kim’s death and the ascension of his young son as the country’s new leader, Curley said in remarks prepared for the opening.”

This move by Associated Press is very positive because it provides “a bridge” to the international community. Also, this news agency is internationally famous and because of this the readership is vast throughout the world.

leejay@moderntokyotimes.com

http://moderntokyotimes.com