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Puppet Dream

Matsumi Kanemitsu

Puppet Dream

1952

Scroll

Matsumi Kanemitsu

Puppet Dream

1952

Physical Qualities Pen and brush and black ink and wash on paper, Sheet: 220 × 152 mm. (8 11/16 × 6 in.)
Credit Line Bequest of J. Blankfard Martenet
Object Number 1957.216.3
Patterned lines and tonal washes of ink form the two eccentric figures floating over a rocky landscape in this mysteriously titled image. This atmospheric drawing is one of the few identifiable works to have been part of Kanemitsu’s first solo exhibition at the Baltimore Museum of Art in 1954. Writing an introduction to that exhibition, donor J. Blankfard Martenet summarized Kanemitsu’s artistry: “Intensity of feeling, intelligent observation, inventive originality and subtlety of expression give life to his work. Receptivity, discernment, and delicacy are most apparent in his drawings, as are his ability to reveal (through a highly personal use of distortion and line values and shadings) fresh and new aspects of ordinary things. His understanding of color and composition seem inborn. Imagination crowns his talent.”
Leslie Cozzi, The Baltimore Museum of Art, "Matsumi Kanemitsu: Figure and Fantasy," May 14 - October 8, 2023.

Inscribed: Recto: upper left, in black ink: "M Kanemitsu / 1953"; Verso: none

Markings: None

Artist

Matsumi Kanemitsu

born Odgen, UT 1922; died Los Angeles, CA 1992

Meet Matsumi Kanemitsu

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