Nihonga (Japanese-style painting) refers to works created using traditional painting techniques that have been passed down in Japan for approximately 1,300 years. These techniques, which arrived from China around the 7th and 8th centuries, evolved in a unique way, shaped by Japan’s natural environment and culture. A defining characteristic of this style is the use of natural materials—such as mineral pigments (iwa-enogu), shell powder (gofun), and gold or silver leaf—bound together with animal glue (nikawa). Rather than using shading to define form, the style relies on “lines” to outline the subjects. Water is used as the solvent. The primary pigments, known as iwa-enogu, are derived from rocks, minerals, crystals, and glass. Because these materials have varying specific gravities, they do not blend together in the solvent but instead remain separate. Consequently, to create intermediate colors, one must apply multiple layers of different-colored pigments. Due to these inherent characteristics, completing a Nihonga work requires a lengthy process involving many distinct stages.
The visual characteristics of these paintings include the beautiful, vibrant hues of mineral pigments derived from natural stones and minerals; a granular, sand-like texture; paint particles that glisten as they reflect light; the luster of metallic materials such as gold or silver leaf; and a unique surface quality (matière) resulting from the combination of diverse materials.
The pigments used in Japanese-style painting are difficult to handle, requiring a great deal of time and experience to master. Various techniques exist across different schools; while these were once passed down through a traditional master-apprentice system, today’s artists must learn the fundamentals from a teacher or established painter and subsequently develop their own unique techniques and modes of expression. This field faces a complex dilemma: it must undergo modernization while simultaneously preserving its traditional artistic heritage.
Since ancient times, elevating one’s spirituality throughout life has been regarded as a vital value in Japan. This pursuit entails striving for spiritual maturity, living in harmony with nature and others, and cultivating the capacity for deep contemplation. Japanese people have sought to embody these ideals through various cultural practices and philosophies, such as the tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), and Bushido (the way of the warrior). Japanese painting is no exception; the process of creating a single work involves confronting one’s own inner self and engaging in meticulous, delicate craftsmanship, allowing that energy to infuse the artwork. It is perhaps this process that imbues the paintings with such depth and tranquility.
Mineral Pigment (Iwa- enogu)
Mud Pigment (Suihi-enogu)
Animal Glue (Nikawa)
Metal leaf (Haku)
Shell Powder (Gofun)
The number of Japanese painting artists who use mineral pigment is steadily decreasing in Japan. The main reason for this is the rising cost of materials and the increase in the number of other art materials that are easier and more flexible to use. I believe that although the techniques of mineral pigment are certainly difficult, the beauty of the colors of it is one and only. However, if the number of artists who use mineral pigment continues to decrease, there is a possibility that Japanese painting itself will disappear. In fact, Japanese painting art supply stores are closing down one after another in Japan. I am currently creating and exhibiting Japanese Painting in Germany, and I realize that there are very few people outside of Japan who have knowledge of it. In order to let foreigners know about Japanese painting, I started a YouTube channel, published the production process, and held presentations and workshops. I hope that in the future many people in Germany and Europe will know about Japanese painting, and European painters will start using Japanese painting materials.
I am still a small artist with less influence, but I think it is my mission to spread Japanese painting here. I hope that we can get to know each other through art and create a world of harmony and peace.
