Hokusai, The Great Wave off Kanagawa, coloured woodblock print in paper, circa 1829.
One of the most famous, and iconic artworks of all time is the Japanese woodblock print The Great Wave off Kanagawa by the artist known as Hokusai. Original appearing as a plate within his Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji published between 1829-1832, this small work - a mere 26 cm x 38 cm - has had a profound influence on the art of the western world since it was first popularlised in France during the 1870s. It is, without doubt, the most famous Japanese work of art outside of that country. Hokusai's portrayal of a breaking wave is frankly amazing, and has been reproduced and incorporated into numerous works over the years. Books and articles have featured the work, and it continues to draw interest. It is undoubtedly timeless. This blog highlights some of the history of the piece over time, including modern reproductions, representations and mashups.
* Rick Griffin, San Francisco 1966
Rick Griffin was a cartoonish and poster artist whose work in the west coast of the United States during the 1960s, initially within surfing magazine and in connection with hot rods, but later as a mucic concert poster artist. His featuring of the Wave within the context of surfing is shown below.
* Emek, Peal Jam concert, Santa Barbara Bowl, 13 July 2006.
Concert poster, limited edition of 100.
