MASAYUKI MIYATA aka Masakazu Kuwata Japanese Mid Century Modern WOODBLOCK Print

Masayuki Miyata (Japanese, 1926-1997) framed mid century modern style, Japanese woodblock print. Artist seal and signed in pencil at lower right. This is an earlier Miyata print because it is signed with the name he initially used, Masakazu Kuwata. Simple frame measures 17 1/4" x 13 1/4", woodblock measures 13" x 10 1/4"

10714-95

As found: Masayuki Miyata wasn't known to a wider audience until recent years, having remained relatively obscure outside Japan. However, Miyata's art has gained popularity in North America and Europe. Collectors worldwide are showing an increasing interest in his artworks, as indicated by our sales.

Masayuki Miyata: Biography

Born on October 30, 1926, in Tokyo (died in 1997), Masayuki Miyata was recognized for his use of the rare art medium known as kiri-e or papercuts. Notably, in 1995, he was appointed as an official artist for the United Nations.

Apart from his expertise in papercuts, Miyata also worked with traditional Japanese woodblock prints 

and silkscreens. Often, identifying the technique used in a particular artwork may not be immediately evident.

Primarily a self-taught artist, Miyata began his career as an illustrator at Charles E. Tuttle Co. in 1954, initially using the artist name Masakazu Kuwata until 1965. In Japan, artists traditionally adopt different names throughout their careers, a practice less common among post-1945 artists, potentially impacting their careers.

Notably, Miyata gained broader recognition for his illustrations in the publications of the esteemed Japanese writer Tanizaki Junichiro, a prominent figure in modern Japanese literature.

Themed Series by Masayuki Miyata

• The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter
• The Tale of Genji
• Women from different Japanese historical periods
• Views of Mount Fuji