How is nature typically depicted in Japanese art, and what philosophical or cultural significance does it hold within various art forms like bonsai, ikebana, and landscape painting?
What are the key characteristics of traditional Japanese ink wash painting (sumi-e), and how does it differ from other East Asian ink painting traditions?
How did the Edo period influence the development and popularization of ukiyo-e, and who were some of the most prominent artists associated with this style?
What role do natural elements and landscapes play in Japanese art, particularly in genres like nihonga and pottery, and how is this reflective of broader cultural values?
What role do Japanese gardens and architecture play in the broader context of Japanese art, and how do they embody principles of balance, simplicity, and harmony?
How do contemporary Japanese artists integrate traditional techniques and themes into their modern works, and what does this say about the evolving identity of Japanese art?