Zao Wou-Ki: Tribute to Nobutaka Shikanai

Lithograph, 1991

Limited edition of 2757 + 30 EA prints

Published by Fuji Television Gallery (Tokyo)

Printer: Art Estampe (Paris)

Catalogue: Agerup 354

75.00 cm × 56.50 cm (sheet size)

61.00 cm × 45.50 cm (image size)

Signed in pencil

Includes certificate of authenticity

Condition: Excellent

BFK Rives paper

About the artwork

"Tribute to Nobutaka Shikanai" is a lithograph created by Zao Wou-Ki in homage to Nobutaka Shikanai, who played a significant role in promoting Japanese art and culture.

This work does not depict specific figures or landscapes.

However, the canvas poetically expresses unseen "presences" and "memories" through quietly expanding light, deeply layered colors, and brushstrokes that traverse the space.

Throughout his life, Zao Wou-Ki sought to depict the essence of nature and space.

His work is not merely abstract;

it is also an attempt to visualize intangible elements such as

Light
Breath
Time
Silence

In this work, layers of softly expanding colors and powerful black lines maintain a delicate balance, imbuing the stillness with profound energy.

There is no direct expression of mourning or commemoration, but rather a lingering spiritual resonance.

The entire composition resembles an inner landscape, existing as a space that changes infinitely according to the viewer's perception.

This work was also created for the Fuji Television Gallery in Tokyo, reflecting a deep cultural connection between Japan and Zao Wou-Ki.

Born in China and matured in France, his art continued to resonate strongly with Asian cultures, including Japan.

Zao Wou-Ki's world, which fuses the Eastern sense of empty space with the dynamism of Western abstract painting, exudes a high level of spirituality and quiet poetic sentiment in this work as well.

"Tribute to Nobutaka Shikanai" transcends being merely a "dedicatory work,"

It is one of the excellent lithographs representing Zao Wou-Ki's mature period, beautifully expressing the

Poetics of Memory and Space

Title Explanation

Tribute to Nobutaka Shikanai

= "Homage to Nobutaka Shikanai"

In art, "Tribute to ~" carries nuances beyond a mere dedication, including:

• Respect
• Spiritual resonance
• Cultural esteem
• Reminiscence