Kototshuka Ei-ichi (1906-1979) was a Japanese woodblock print artist who was known for his intricate and detailed prints that often featured nature and landscapes. He was born in Tokyo and studied at the Kawabata Art School before becoming a student of the well-known print artist, Hiratsuka Un'ichi.
Kototshuka's style was heavily influenced by Hiratsuka's "sosaku hanga" (creative print) movement, which emphasized the artist's individual creativity and expression in the printmaking process. He often used multiple blocks to achieve his desired effects, and his prints featured a rich interplay of color and texture.
Kototshuka's prints were highly regarded both in Japan and abroad, and he received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Order of Cultural Merit in 1977. His works are held in the collections of many museums and galleries, including the Tokyo National Museum, the British Museum, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
In addition to his work as an artist, Kototshuka was also a teacher and mentor to many young printmakers. He taught at the Tokyo University of the Arts and the Musashino Art University, and he was known for his generosity and willingness to share his knowledge and expertise with others.
