Geisha Painting
Hand-painted painting of a Japanese Geisha
SPECIFICATIONS
Series: Becoming a Geisha
Title: Geisha II
Artist: © Frank Wagtmans
Technique: Acrylic Paint on Canvas
Materials: Gesso, Acrylic Paint, Varnish
Carrier: 100% linen canvas of 430g/m² and medium structure on a stretcher frame of FSC wood. The canvas has a 3-layer primer and is universally prepared. The canvas is stretched along the back. Sides are painted along. No frame needed.
Varnish: High gloss with UV filter
Orientation: Vertical
Dimensions (Height x Width x Depth): 140 x 100 x 4 cm (55.12 x 39.37 x 1.57 inch)
Exclusive: Only one copy exists
Painting process: 4 weeks
Availability: Sold
ABOUT THE ARTWORK
In this enchanting painting, measuring 140x100 cm, the elegant world of the geisha comes to life. The artwork, constructed from a layered palette of acrylic paint and enriched with subtle thick paint textures, captures the essence of the geisha in a unique and expressive manner. The geisha, draped in a beautiful kimono adorned with floral motifs, reflects the timeless beauty and refinement of Japanese culture.
The intricate decoration of flowers, both on the kimono and in the lush hair of the geisha, adds a touch of natural grace to the portrait. Each flower petal may carry symbolic meaning, as is often the case in rich Japanese traditions. The carefully applied thick paint textures create tangible textures that bring the entire piece to life, emphasizing the depth of artistic expression.
The deep red background serves as a dramatic backdrop, allowing the geisha to emerge from the canvas. The intensity of the color red can be connected with passion, energy, and the deep-rooted symbolism that red carries in Japanese culture.
The geisha herself wears sublime makeup, an integral part of her traditional appearance. The artist has precision in creating the distinctive white makeup, delicately applied lipstick, and eyeshadow, giving the geisha's face an aura of mysterious allure.
The sides of the painting are seamlessly painted, allowing the artwork to stand as a complete entity. It invites the viewer to immerse themselves in the rich details and subtle nuances of the geisha's world.
Geishas are highly skilled artists excelling in performing arts such as music, dance, singing, and poetry. They undergo years of training to become masters in these disciplines and are considered custodians of traditional Japanese culture. Geishas perform at social gatherings, tea ceremonies, and other formal occasions, providing not only entertainment but also an atmosphere of refinement and hospitality.
The iconic appearance of a geisha, with her striking makeup, intricate hairstyle, and beautiful kimono, embodies aesthetics and craftsmanship. The geisha culture is deeply rooted in Japan's history and remains a captivating symbol of elegance and artistic excellence. The painting brings this rich culture to life, inviting contemplation on a journey through the enchanting world of the geisha.
SPECIAL FEATURES
One unique copy!
100% hand painted
Contemporary style
The portrait exudes a Japanese atmosphere
High quality materials used
Artwork's sides also painted
UV-resistant gloss varnish for protection
No frame required
Personally signed by the artist
Why choose to buy a hand-painted painting instead of a reproduction or digital artwork?
Uniqueness and originality: A hand-painted painting is a unique work of art that is handmade by an artist. It carries the artist's unique artistic vision, style and skills, making it an authentic and original piece.
Artistic value and craftsmanship: Hand-painted paintings show the craftsmanship and artistic skills of the artist. You can appreciate the brush strokes, the texture of the paint and the subtle details incorporated into the work. Owning a hand-painted painting offers a sense of connection to the artist and the artistic process.
Emotional impact and aesthetic pleasure: Art has the power to evoke emotions and touch people on a deeper level. A hand-painted painting can have an intense emotional impact and bring you joy, inspiration or wonder every time you look at it. It can enrich your space and provide an aesthetic pleasure that is difficult to replicate.
In short, buying a hand-painted painting offers a unique experience and ownership of an original work of art that combines craftsmanship, emotional impact and potentially valuable investment. It can beautify your living space and become a source of inspiration and enjoyment for many years to come.
The painting process
Here I am working on the first basic sketch. The outline is being built up step by step.
The so-called outlines are applied with special thick lines, this thick paint structure gives the portrait more depth.
Here the portrait is well advanced and here I am working on adding the final details.
The painting is now completely finished and the varnish layer is applied in layers.
Here it is easy to see that the varnish layer raises the color intensity, making the colors even more powerful.
The painting should dry thoroughly for a day before it is ready to be hung.
GEISHA IN JAPANESE CULTURE
The geishas, literally translated as "person of the arts," were professional female performers who emerged in pre-modern Japan. Their origins can be traced back to the 17th century, when they began performing in tea houses in the cities of Kyoto and Edo (now Tokyo).
Originally, geishas were male performers responsible for entertaining guests during tea ceremonies. Later, in the 18th century, female geishas developed as professional performers who specialized in singing, dancing, poetry and playing instruments such as the shamisen and taiko.
Geishas were trained in traditional Japanese arts and culture and served as companions for society's elite. Their services were expensive and only available to those who could afford them. They were considered the highest form of sophistication and elegance in Japanese society.
Geishas had a very structured lifestyle and had to follow strict rules and regulations, including wearing a kimono, styling their hair, and using makeup. They were supervised by an older female mentor, the "okasan," who was responsible for their training and managing their careers.
Although geishas are often confused with prostitutes, they were not. Geishas were not sexual service providers and their work focused on providing entertainment and companionship to their clients.
During the rise of modern Japan in the 20th century, geishas gradually began to become less popular and their role in society was increasingly disrupted. Today, only a few hundred geishas remain active in Japan, and their traditional arts and lifestyle are carefully preserved as part of Japan's cultural heritage.
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