What are the defining characteristics of the Edo period's art, and how did it reflect the social and cultural changes occurring in Japan at the time?
How have traditional Japanese art forms such as ukiyo-e and sumi-e influenced modern art movements both within Japan and globally?
In what ways did the introduction of Western art styles during the Meiji Restoration impact Japanese art and its global perception?
How have contemporary Japanese artists integrated traditional techniques with modern themes and mediums?
How does Japanese garden design reflect the principles of Zen Buddhism, and what role does art play in these gardens?
What are the characteristics and cultural significance of traditional Japanese Sumi-e ink painting?
How did the Edo period influence the development and themes of Ukiyo-e woodblock prints in Japan?
5. **How does the concept of "wabi-sabi" manifest in various Japanese art forms, and how does it differ from Western aesthetic values?
4. **In what ways has Japanese art been impacted by cultural exchanges with the West throughout history?
3. **Who are some of the most influential Japanese contemporary artists, and what themes are commonly explored in their work?
