How do anime and manga, as modern forms of Japanese art, reflect cultural and historical themes, and what impact have they had on global perceptions of Japanese art and culture?
What role did the introduction of Western art techniques play in the evolution of Nihonga, and how have artists balanced these influences with traditional Japanese styles?
5. **What role do traditional crafts, such as ceramics, textile arts, and lacquerware, play in Japan's cultural identity, and how are these crafts being preserved or evolved in the 21st century?
4. **How did the aesthetics and principles of Zen Buddhism influence the development of Japanese garden design, and what are some iconic examples of this influence?
3. **In what ways have contemporary Japanese artists incorporated traditional techniques or themes into modern art forms, and how is this reflective of broader cultural changes in Japan?