Takeshi Hara 'Strokes' 
Takeshi Hara 'Strokes'
Title: Strokes (81-1)
Artist: Takeshi Hara (b. 1942)
Medium: Serigraph
Date: January 1981
Edition: Limited edition, 33 of 45
Signature: Signed in the lower right
This striking serigraph by Takeshi Hara is part of his celebrated Strokes series, a body of work that he began in the 1970s and continued into the mid-1990s. Known for his mastery of color gradation and the fluidity of his forms, Hara’s Strokes series reflects a perfect blend of traditional Japanese calligraphy and modern abstract art. Each piece in the series features curved, calligraphy-like strokes that seem to move across the surface, capturing light and energy in a way that feels both tranquil and dynamic. In this particular work, the artist employs a harmonious spectrum of colors, each stroke transitioning through delicate gradients of blue, green, silver, yellow, black, and orange, evoking a sense of balance and serenity.
Hara’s ability to create such smooth, even surfaces is a testament to his technical expertise. In a methodical process, he applied inks using large rollers to achieve the flawless blending of colors, a technique more commonly associated with lithography but executed here through serigraphy.
His commitment to precision results in an artwork that appears both minimalistic and rich in depth, embodying the zen-like simplicity that characterizes much of his work.
Hara’s international reputation was cemented following his participation in prestigious exhibitions such as the Paris Biennale (1971), and his works have since been displayed globally. His Strokes series, including this piece, is recognized for its cerebral qualities, engaging viewers on both visual and contemplative levels.
Condition:
- Good condition overall. Some debris is visible behind the glass, and there is minor UV fading on the paper, typical of works exposed to light over time.
Dimensions:
- Overall (with frame): 26" x 33"
- Visible image area: 18" x 25 1/2"
Framed behind glass and matted, this piece is not only an important part of Takeshi Hara’s oeuvre but also a visually compelling work of modern abstract art that bridges the gap between traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary techniques.