Name: Karlwinn L.

Paitan
Title of the Art Work: The Great Wave of Kanagawa
Artist: Katsushika Hokusai

Review
"The Great Wave of Kanagawa" by Katsushika Hokusai is perhaps the most famous
woodblock print (ukiyo-e) from Japan, and it provides a wealth of elements to discuss from a
design and composition perspective. Here's a review applying the principles of understanding
artistic design and composition:

• Balance: One of the immediate aspects of the print is its dynamic balance. While the
great wave occupies a significant portion of the composition, drawing immediate
attention with its curvilinear form and foamy crests, the distant Mount Fuji provides a
counterpoint in the background, offering a sense of stillness and stability. This balance
is achieved regarding visual weight and spatial distribution, creating an interplay
between dynamism and tranquility.

• Movement: The curving tendrils of the wave create a sense of motion, guiding the
viewer's eye throughout the piece. The way the waves curve and crash forward helps
to emphasize the power and intensity of the ocean's force, propelling the eye toward
the vulnerable boats beneath.
 • Contrast: Hokusai employs contrast in multiple ways – from the stark color differences
(the deep blues versus the whites of the wave's froth and the muted color of Mount
Fuji) to the contrast in forms (the organic, dynamic shape of the waves versus the
geometric, stable form of the mountain).

• Scale and Proportion: The exaggerated size of the wave compared to the boats and
even Mount Fuji emphasizes nature's overwhelming power. This creates a dramatic
effect where human endeavors and even iconic landmarks like Mount Fuji seem small
and insignificant in the face of nature's might.

• Rhythm: The smaller waves that recede into the background, mirrored by the rounded
cloud forms surrounding Mount Fuji, introduce a rhythm to the piece. This repetition
creates a visual flow that harmonizes with the primary wave and anchors the
composition.

• Harmony: Despite the tumult depicted, all elements have a harmonious relationship.
The color palette is limited but effective, creating unity and cohesiveness in the artwork.

• Focal Point: The wave's crest, with its claw-like formations reaching towards the peak
of Mount Fuji, is the undeniable focal point. This interplay subtly ties the wave and
mountain together, implying an interconnectedness between the elements of nature.

• Negative Space: The open sky and the spaces between the waves are as crucial as
the more detailed sections. They offer viewers a visual respite and balance the intense
action in other print parts.

• Texture: The intricate detailing in the waves, especially the frothy white crests,
introduces a textural quality that emphasizes the sea's ferocity and highlights the
meticulous craftsmanship and technique of woodblock printing.

• Storytelling: Beyond the formal elements, the piece tells a story of humans' place in
the vast scale of nature, the relentless power of the sea, and the ephemeral nature of
life. The boats, struggling amidst the wave, symbolize the human spirit's resilience in
the face of overwhelming odds.

In conclusion, "The Great Wave off Kanagawa" is an artistic design and composition
masterclass. Hokusai's print is not just a beautiful depiction of a natural scene; it captures raw
emotion, power, and the delicate balance of nature, making it a timeless piece that continues
to captivate audiences worldwide.