Hisashi Otsuka (Born 1947) Lithograph. Signed lower left. Edition 58/300 (lower right.) Subject: Famous Samurai Miyamoto Musashi who was born in 1584. Sight size: 32 x 26 in. Overall size: 40 1/2 x 35 in. Otsuka was born in 1947 into an exceptionally creative family. His natural artistic talents were encouraged and eventually developed formally in apprenticeship to one of Japan's foremost designers of kimonos, Taeko Jo. When Otsuka first came to Jo, he did little more than clean brushes and cook for the staff. The Bushido code, which specifies training in all the arts and sciences, determines that the technique of the art form is taught only after the student has learned service, duty and discipline. It was three years before Otsuka could cut a piece of cloth or paint a single stroke. Otsuka remained with Jo for eight years. Otsuka came to the West - to Hawaii - in 1979. Until that time his painting had been historical in subject and theme. But now it has emerged from the past in ways that are very exciting. In his neo-deco style - a dramatic new movement in the world of art - Otsuka's compositions have evolved to a decorative elegance. Otsuka's art has achieved an important transition: a cross-cultural excellence that not only appeals to East and West artistically, but also brings them together in understanding. This, after all, is Otsuka's personal mission, and he pursues it with splendid dedication.