Tanabe Chikuunsai IV: Masterpieces in Bamboo

Tanabe Chikuunsai IV's art elevates bamboo to new heights by weaving together small pieces of fibrous stalk to create vast, detailed sculptures without the use of rivets or adhesives. His sculptures revere traditional workmanship while conveying important contemporary messages, such as the codependence of nature and man and the importance of protecting the environment. This monograph follows Chikuunsai IV's growth from a child marveling at his grandfather's mastery of bamboo to a maestro in his own right, providing a sturdy foundation on which his art continues to build.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: ACC Art Books

Bamboo, a versatile and resilient plant, has been utilized for centuries as a construction material, food source, and fuel, spanning from India to Japan. Tanabe Chikuunsai IV's exceptional artistry takes bamboo to unprecedented heights by skillfully weaving together small fragments of fibrous stalks, resulting in vast and intricate sculptures that stand tall without the need for rivets or adhesives. Beyond its practical function, Chikuunsai IV's sculptures transcend into modern art, serving as a unifying symbol of Japanese culture. They pay homage to traditional craftsmanship while imparting vital contemporary messages, emphasizing the interconnectedness of nature and humanity and the critical importance of environmental protection.

This monograph, which blends autobiography and an introduction to the craft, traces Chikuunsai IV's journey from a young boy marveling at his grandfather's mastery of bamboo to a virtuoso in his own right. Bamboo weaves his past into his present, providing a solid foundation upon which his art continues to flourish. Chikuunsai IV wholeheartedly embraces the bamboo plant, as evidenced by his motto, "Love bamboos, live with bamboos." This book vividly showcases his dedication to this versatile material, demonstrating how he has seamlessly integrated it into his life and artistic practice.

In conclusion, Tanabe Chikuunsai IV's exceptional artistry and unwavering dedication to bamboo have transformed it from a mere construction material to a captivating form of modern art. His sculptures not only showcase the beauty of nature but also convey profound messages about the interconnectedness of humanity and the environment. Through his work, Chikuunsai IV inspires us to appreciate the value of sustainability and to recognize the potential of nature to inspire and shape our world.

Weight: 866g
Dimension: 240 x 190 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788841139