Okada Koichi was a Japanese woodblock print artist who was active in the 20th century. He was born in 1907 in Ishikawa Prefecture and studied at the Tokyo School of Fine Arts (now Tokyo University of the Arts). Okada was known for his landscapes and cityscapes, which often featured dynamic angles and dramatic use of light and shadow.
In the 1930s, Okada was a member of the sosaku-hanga (creative print) movement, which emphasized the artist's individual creativity in the printmaking process. He was also associated with the Shin Hanga (new print) movement, which sought to revive traditional Japanese printmaking techniques while incorporating modern themes and aesthetics.
Okada's prints often featured views of Tokyo and other urban areas, capturing the bustling energy and atmosphere of city life. His landscapes, on the other hand, focused on the natural beauty of Japan, with depictions of mountains, forests, and waterfalls. Okada's use of color was notable, with vibrant hues and subtle gradations creating a sense of depth and atmosphere.
Throughout his career, Okada taught at various art schools in Japan and was a member of several printmaking organizations. His work has been exhibited internationally and is held in the collections of major museums and galleries, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the British Museum in London. Okada is considered one of the most important Japanese printmakers of the 20th century.
