Ponti Art Gallery is interested in buying and selling works
of art by this artist.
Toshimitsu Imai Biography
Toshimitsu Imai, born in Kyoto in 1928, emerged as a pivotal figure in the post-war Japanese art scene, bridging the gap between Eastern traditions and Western abstract expressionism. His journey into the world of art was not predetermined by his family background, which was rooted in literature, but rather was a path he chose for himself at the age of 19. Imai's initial foray into the arts saw him attending the Oil Painting Department of the Tokyo State Art Academy, where he honed his skills and developed his early style of painting.
In 1948, the same year he embarked on his formal art education, Imai's artistic journey took a significant turn as he ventured to Paris. This move was driven by a desire for further education in the arts and a yearning to immerse himself in the European art scene. Paris in the post-war era was a melting pot of artistic innovation, and it was here that Imai encountered the Art Informel movement, which would have a profound influence on his work. Art Informel, characterized by its abstract expressionism and emphasis on spontaneity and improvisation, resonated with Imai, who was seeking to break free from traditional Japanese artistic conventions.
Imai's work during this period began to approach a kind of abstraction imbued with a distinct Japanese sensibility. His paintings, characterized by colorful abstractions reminiscent of Fauvism, showcased his ability to blend Eastern and Western artistic traditions seamlessly. In 1951, Imai's unique style was recognized when he was awarded the Kansai-Shinseisaku Prize, followed by another accolade in 1952.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Imai continued to evolve as an artist, experimenting with different materials and techniques. His works from this period are marked by their dynamic compositions, explosive brushwork, and vibrant use of color. Imai's paintings, such as "Composition" (1963) and "Soleil" (1963), exemplify his mastery of color and form, creating powerful and energetic canvases that captivate the viewer. These works not only reflect Imai's personal artistic journey but also his contribution to the broader dialogue between Japanese and Western art.
Imai's involvement with the Art Informel movement and his interactions with fellow artists in Paris, including his close friendship with Sam Francis, further enriched his artistic practice. Francis, an American abstract expressionist, shared with Imai a fascination with the Oriental void, which influenced Imai's pursuit of Asian values in his abstraction. This exchange of ideas between East and West was a hallmark of Imai's career, making him a key figure in the transnational art scene of the time.
Despite his success in Europe, Imai remained deeply connected to his Japanese roots. His work is a testament to his ability to navigate the complexities of cultural identity, merging traditional Japanese aesthetics with the avant-garde movements of the West. Imai's paintings are not just visual experiences but are imbued with a sense of cultural and historical depth, reflecting his ongoing exploration of the self and the world around him.
Toshimitsu Imai's legacy is that of an artist who transcended geographical and cultural boundaries to create a body of work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. His contributions to the post-war Japanese art scene and his role in fostering cross-cultural dialogue in the arts have cemented his place as one of the most influential Japanese painters of the 20th century. Imai passed away in 2002, leaving behind a rich and diverse oeuvre that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world
Toshimitsu Imai Quotes and
Sales of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
If you wish to purchase works by the painter: Contact us
and let us know your request. We will inform you about the
available works. We also offer the possibility to
subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, through which you will be
informed at the beginning of each month about the latest
acquisitions of the art gallery.
You can send us pictures of the work: