Published on March 3, 2010
in Features and Special Presentations.
Tags: art, Artist, Calligraphy, Fred, Freddy, Janet De Sena, Janet Planet, Japan, Muramasa Kudo, philosophy, Ryofu Mayama, Samantha Lockwood, tomorrow pictures, tomorrowpictures.tv, Zen, Будизм Дзэн, каллиграфия, Япония, 日本語, 書道, 武士, 禅.
Life is art. A simple creed, but one that has made a Master of world renowned Japanese artist and calligrapher Muramasa Kudo. An innovative renaissance man who sees the art and wonder in all aspects of his life, Kudo’s artistic style is influenced by both Zen philosophy and the ancient practice of calligraphy. Tune in for an exclusive Janet Planet interview with Muramasa Kudo on tomorrowpictures.TV! Kudo was born in Kawamata-Machi, a small town north of Tokyo, Japan, in June 1948. Kudo’s skilled, artistic gift is inherited from his ancestors: since the 12th century, the men of the Kudo house have been Samurais. At age 13 his extraordinary skill won him first place in Japan’s Youth Competition, the International All-Asia Competition and finally at 14 he won the International World Committee Calligraphy Competition. Inspired by Japan’s turbulent social reinventions, Kudo was very active in his youth and teenage years and continued to broaden his creative awareness in pursuit of mastering himself. Kudo found his sanctuary from a calligraphy Master Ryofu Mayama, who became his first teacher in Zen philosophy, which allowed his creative instincts to flourish and taught him the skills and discipline which uncommonly characterizes his contemporary works. He has continued the rigorous practice of Zen philosophy for over 30 years. Kudo has traveled the world extensively and is by nature outgoing, spirited and enchanting. Diversified in his desires, his talents are many.
He is self taught and proficient in fine culinary cuisine, classical and flamenco guitar. He is comfortable at the piano and sings with a smooth crooner’s voice. He has held a myriad of unusual jobs. Kudo’s resume is broad and unusual, ranging from race car driver, jewelry trader, emerald mine hunter in Brazil, restaurant cook, textile designer, importer, exporter and to developer of some 28 restaurants. However, Kudo feels that his greatest accomplishment is his five sons.
Kudo’s work evokes a sense of escape and fantasy. Many of his paintings are Inspired by strong, goddess-like woman who dwell in the natural setting Kudo has loved since a child. Deemed a “master of line” by his critics, Kudo is acclaimed for his clean, simple and controlled style which earned him distinction in calligraphy. His skill of calligraphy, gives each original painting, refinement and delicacy of detail, as a great master of the line drawing. You can visit Muramasa Kudo’s studios at www.kudostudio.com/.
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