Imitation and Creativity in Japanese Arts

Explore the intricate relationship between imitation and creativity in Japanese arts with Imitation and Creativity in Japanese Arts by Michael Lucken. Published by Columbia University Press in 2016, this insightful hardback spans 256 pages and challenges the long-standing notion that Japanese art is merely a product of rote copying. Lucken delves into the colonial narrative that has shaped perceptions of Japanese artistry since the eighteenth century, revealing how these misconceptions stem from Romantic ideals of originality. Through an examination of several twentieth-century masterpieces, he illustrates the unique character of Japanese mimesis and its profound influence on global culture. This book is essential for anyone interested in art criticism, cultural studies, and the evolution of artistic expression in Japan.