Kosugi Hōan (1881–1964) was a painter born in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, who established a unique artistic world in both Western-style and Japanese painting. In his youth, he studied under Koyama Shōtarō and made a name for himself as a Western-style painter at exhibitions such as the Bunten; however, he eventually developed a deeper interest in classical Eastern art, ink wash painting and literati painting, gradually transforming his style towards a free and concise brushwork. Using subjects such as figures, landscapes, and flowers and birds, he produced works characterised by an expansive expressiveness reminiscent of poetry and calligraphy.

Hōan’s works possess a lightness that captures the atmosphere of the subject in a single stroke, rather than displaying intricate technical skill. His lines are generous and may at times appear simple, yet they reveal a sure sense of form underpinned by many years of practice. He naturally transcends the boundaries between Western and Japanese painting, and one senses a freedom as if he were simply enjoying the act of painting itself. I believe that Kosugi Hōan’s great appeal lies in the profound depth of flavour that remains within his relaxed, unforced style.