Shimizu Kosho | Painting
Spring new moon,
floating in memories.
And over the mountains
the moon shines at night.
Inelegantly written by Shusetsu
But who is Shusetsu? – Shusetsu, one of Shimizu Kosho’s many artistic pseudonyms, translates to “Protector of the unskillful”. This title may serve as a humble self-reflection, but it also hints at his earlier role as the supervisor of the Todaiji kindergarten – a pivotal time in his life. During these years, Kosho closely observed the children, whose spontaneous, uninhibited creativity greatly influenced his artistic approach. The children embodied a natural, unrefined artistry that Kosho deeply admired. In 1981, Shimizu Kosho stepped down from his role as the abbot of Todaiji Temple, marking the end of his monastic career. This transition ushered in a new chapter – one entirely dedicated to his art. With renewed passion, Kosho embraced his creativity more fully than ever before, channeling an impulsive, joyful, and eccentric energy into his work.
A loose brush was Shimizu Kosho’s hall mark. And this landscape – a rather uncommon topic in Kosho’s work by the way – is a most illustrative example of this.
Shimizu Kosho
Ink on paper
53.6 x 38.3 cm (21 x 15 in.)
Mounting 133 x 56 cm (52 ½ x 22 in.)
Wooden box
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