Kazuo Nakamura

 

Blue Reflections, 1965

oil on canvas, 86.3 x 114.3 cm

Kazuo Nakamura (1926–2002) was a Japanese-Canadian artist who produced one of the most varied and consistently original bodies of work of his generation. His artistic journey spanned more than forty years, during which he created paintings and sculptures that reflected his exploration of different styles and techniques. Here are some key points about his life and art:

1. Early Years and Background:

   • Born on October 13, 1926, in Vancouver, Canada.
   • Nakamura was a second-generation Japanese Canadian (nisei).
   • His father, Toichi Nakamura, had immigrated to Canada from Hiroshima in 1911.

2. Inspiration and Influences:

   • Fascinated by his uncle’s collection of Japanese art magazines, Nakamura developed an early interest in art.
   • He studied with influential West Coast artists during his teenage years.

3. Painters Eleven:

   • Nakamura was a founding member of the Toronto-based Painters Eleven group in the 1950s.
   • This group played a significant role in advancing abstract art in Canada.

4. Artistic Exploration:

   • Inspired by his colleagues in Painters Eleven, Nakamura moved between figuration and abstraction.
   • He experimented with different styles and techniques, seeking to reveal universal laws of nature found in science and mathematics.

5. Achievements and Legacy:

   • Nakamura achieved remarkable success during his lifetime, which was unprecedented for any Japanese Canadian artist.
   • His muted landscapes and abstract compositions garnered acclaim.
   • His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of artists.

6. Where to See His Work:

   • You can explore Nakamura’s art at various institutions, including the Art Gallery of Ontario, Canadian War Museum, Government of Ontario Art Collection, MacLaren Art Centre, Museum London, and the National Gallery of Canada.