Question

The Roman author Quintilian said, "Art was inspired by nature, a work of art differs from nature because an artist will transform nature into art." Examine the painting below by Katsushika Hokusai entitled, The Great Wave of Kanagawa. Explain how the artwork relates to Quintilian's famous quote, including the artist's technique(s) and inspiration(s).

Answer 1

Waves in their natural form, are not necessarily art, however Katsushika Hokusai has captured the fierceness of the waves and the glory of the ocean by painting a frozen image of a large wave just before it is about to crash down on the sea below. The artist used proportion to show the large wave as most prominent, displaying its power over the waves below. The artist created balance for the large wave on the left, by creating height in the sky, which is more likely clouds on the right. The white caps are emphasized by the artist's use of contrast between their light, and the darkness of rest of the sea. This makes the white caps appear claw-like, reaching out for the sea below with intention and strength. The artist's main inspiration was nature, specifically the sea.