How did the Edo period influence the development of traditional Japanese art forms like Ukiyo-e and bonsai, and what themes were commonly depicted in these artworks?
What are the key characteristics of Japanese calligraphy (Shodo) and how does it differ from Chinese calligraphy in terms of technique, philosophy, and cultural significance?
How does Japanese contemporary art reflect the country's unique cultural identity, and who are some of the most influential Japanese contemporary artists today?
In what ways does Japanese garden design encapsulate principles of Zen Buddhism, and how are these principles reflected in the layout and elements of the gardens?
How did the Meiji Restoration impact the transition of Japan from traditional to modern art practices, and what role did western influences play in this transformation?
What are the key characteristics and themes of Ukiyo-e, the traditional Japanese woodblock print genre, and how did it influence Western art movements such as Impressionism?
How have Japanese ceramics and pottery evolved over the centuries, and what distinguishes the styles of different regions, such as Raku, Arita, and Mino?
