Kiyoshi Saito (1907-1997, Japanese) at The Great Cat

Kiyoshi Saito (1907-1997, Japanese)

Kiyoshi Saito (1907-1997, Japanese) was born in Fukushima prefecture. Early on Saito became interested in art and after moving to Tokyo in 1932, began studying Western art at the Hongo Painting Institute; however, Saito remained mainly self-taught. Saito, at first, worked in oil painting, but began experimenting with woodblock prints around 1938. His early works are highly realistic three dimensional representations of local Japanese villages and people. During WWII, his career was put on hold. And so, it was only in 1948 that he first exhibited his works sponsored by Americans for Japanese Artists. Afterwards, the US State Department sponsored his travel and exhibitions around the US and Europe.

Saito completed all the work for his woodblock prints, drawing, carving and printing the blocks himself. Often his prints were made from a single piece of wood with the natural grain patterns evident. His works evolved into two-dimensional elongated figures that are flattened. This style is apparent in his depiction of his cats. Long and sleek, his cats are represented in an almost geometric style. Saito is credited with being one of the early founders of the Sosaku-hanga (creative print) movement.

Saito’s works were popular collectors’ items in the 1950’s and 60’s. In 1967, Saito made a woodblock print of Prime Minister Eisaku Sato for Time Magazine. His works are still highly sought after at auctions and are also displayed in major museums. The Kiyoshi Saito Museum was established in Aizu and holds many of his works.

Head of a Cat. 1953

Cat and Kittens

Cats, 1974

Girl with Cat

Cat and Kittens, 1955

Seated Cat, 1951

Two Cats, 1952

Beauty-Contest

Black Cat

Black Cat with Beige Background

Four Cats

Line Up of Cats

Mother and Kittens

Mother Love

Mother Love Detail

Multi Colored Cats

Stripes the Cat

Three Cats

Two Black and White Cats

Two Colorful Cats

Neko Rain, 1985

Two Cats and a Butterfly

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