Chiyu Uemae

Chiyu Uemae, born in 1920, was a notable Japanese artist who made significant contributions to the Gutai Art Association. Uemae's works were characterized by elaborate materials and a broad range of artistic mediums, reflecting his rich experiences and experimentation.

Biography of Chiyu Uemae

Uemae explored various professions, including working as a crane operator and apprenticing at a traditional dyeing factory in Kyoto before delving into the art scene and becoming a member of the Gutai Art Association.

At first, he embarked on a self-taught journey of nan-ga, the southern school of Chinese painting, then eventually transitioned to oil painting. His talent was recognized when he achieved first prize at the Niki-kai's annual exhibition, an artist organization established in 1947.

In 1951, Uemae held his first solo show at a public library in Manazuru. His path took a significant turn in November 1953 when he crossed paths with Jiro Yoshihara. From that moment, he participated in every Gutai exhibition until the group's dissolution.

Chiyu Uemae's art style

 Uemae's art style is characterized by repetitive movements and a fascination with ordinary objects, such as matches, paint tubes, and sawdust. From 1956 to 1964, he crafted pieces adorned with the remnants of everyday life, bringing beauty to humble materials. 

A notable aspect of Uemae's artworks lies in the size of his paintings, which presents an intriguing dimension. Many of his pieces are small, their colors resonating like precious gems on the wall. 

In his later years, Uemae shifted his artistic focus to textile art. The artist attributed his most transformative experience to his apprenticeship in Kyozome, a traditional dyeing technique associated with Kyoto. 

Even in his 90s, Uemae continued to actively create, delving into the realms of etching and silkscreen printing, showcasing his enduring passion and dedication to his craft.