Imao Keinen was a renowned Japanese painter and print designer who made significant contributions to the art world during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1904, he received the prestigious appointment of Imperial Household Artist.

He was influenced by the shin-hanga (“new prints”) movement, which challenged the rigidness of hand-drawn painting and the traditional ukiyo-e models. Drawn from Western influences, shin-hanga artists incorporated techniques like dramatic lighting and emotive portrayals of mood to achieve a distinct artistic excellence.

Several people underlined this specific artistic approach. Given the diverse perspectives we have on the world, Keinen’s work shows a clear preference for exploring the impact of ‘water and ink’.

There is a certain enchantment in the combination of water and ink, a power that can bring about profound transformations. He carefully conceals it on the very tip of his brush. With a single gesture, he skillfully brought the object to life, as if wielding a magic wand. Through the skilled manipulation of the brush, a range of unique effects emerge on the delicate rice paper, manifesting in diverse forms such as dots, lines, and arches. However, the ink mark appears to be in its early stages, poised for future growth. When extracting elements from his painting, it becomes difficult to discern the object.

In fact, the nature of the object changes over time instead of staying the same. The artist skillfully captures the dynamic nature of the object by expertly manipulating shades in different degrees. This variation in shading brings the object to life, making it tangible and easily recognizable. This presents a clear contrast to the woodcut prints that are commonly seen in the western world.

Albrecht Dürer, a renowned German painter and printmaker, showcases a captivating array of strokes in his artwork. The artist Dürer employs brushstrokes with a meticulous and exacting approach. The strokes were meticulously arranged, with careful consideration given to the object’s shape and lighting. Dürer’s work showcases a meticulous attention to detail and a deep commitment to observation.

On the other hand, Imao Keinen's work exudes a sense of adaptability and effortlessness. Depending on how it aligns with other elements, a dot can transform into various forms, such as an aborigine or an onion. The artist aims to ensure that the representation goes beyond mere imitation of the external world, delving deeper into the true essence of the object. According to the artist, the core of the object remains undefined or perhaps even indefinable.

The artist employs a unique technique involving the use of water and ink to depict various objects. It adds to a distinct portrayal of the objective world. Through the process of dissolving ink with water in varying degrees, the strokes take on a range of shades, from light to dark.

the painting serves as a gateway to a world that transcends mere physical appearances. It goes beyond the conventional structures, avoids focusing on technical skills, and rejects a sweeping narrative of ideologies.

In addition, the level of pressure applied to the brush by the artist plays a crucial role in determining the saturation of shading. Applying gentle pressure to the brush creates a delicate, watercolor-like stroke, while applying more pressure results in a deeper, more saturated mark. It appears to be a technical skill that demands diligent training. Nevertheless, it can be a test for a calm spirit. To truly master this technique, an artist must achieve a state of complete serenity. It requires a mental rather than physical expertise. Imao Keinen's perspective is that the external world is merely a reflection of the inner world, akin to that of a celestial being.Thus, his work is a fervent exploration of his authentic essence, seeking to connect with his inner self through diverse manifestations of the human experience.

There is a sight of two cucumbers gently supporting one another. The connection between the two is both nuanced and significant. This profound concept highlights the interconnectedness of all things and emphasizes the intangible nature of existence. Imao Keinen's work skillfully captures the depth of everyday objects, showcasing a profound appreciation for the art of storytelling. Undoubtedly, the artist aims to depict a nuanced interplay between various objects, rather than creating a mere replica of reality. According to Nanquan Puyuan, a Chinese Zen master in the Tang dynasty, the perception of a flower is not simply the observation of the physical object, but rather a mysterious and illusory experience. Eastern artists place a greater emphasis on the pursuit of "spirit" (sheng) rather than realism.

An excellent work of art should be a clear expression of the 'sheng', commonly known as 'chuansheng'. For artists like Imao Keinen, the painting serves as a gateway to a world that transcends mere physical appearances. It goes beyond the conventional structures, avoids focusing on technical skills, and rejects a sweeping narrative of ideologies. An artist's work is a beautiful reflection of the universal truth, capturing the essence of ever-changing dynamism. It is like watching an elegant dancer gracefully move with a slow yet smooth rhythm, revealing the profound depth of cosmic dynamism. The artistic representation emphasizes the intangible rather than the tangible. Imao Keinen's work is a daring exploration, a constant pursuit to capture the essence of the ethereal cosmic realm.