Abstract Expressionst Painting on Canvas by Ken Nishi "Gaspe & the Laurenthians"

Large scale abstract painting on canvas executed by Ken Nishi in 1978 titled "Gaspe and the Laurethians" inspired by his frequent visits to the mountains and peninsulas of Quebec, Canada.
Ken Nishi (1916–2001) was a remarkable Nisei artist whose life and work bridged cultures and continents. Born on June 7, 1916, in Salinas, California, Nishi grew up in a family that celebrated both Japanese and American traditions. His father was a pioneer in modern farming techniques, while his mother was a tanka poet, instilling in him a deep appreciation for creativity and innovation.
Nishi's artistic journey began at Salinas Junior College, and he later honed his craft at the prestigious Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles, where he studied under renowned artist Millard Sheets. His early career included assisting Sheets on a mural for the 1939 Treasure Island Exposition, showcasing his talent on a grand scale.
During World War II, Nishi served in the U.S. Army while his family faced the harsh realities of incarceration in an American concentration camp. Despite these challenges, he continued to create, painting murals in military recreation facilities and exhibiting his work in Missouri and Illinois. It was during this time that he met Setsuko Matsunaga, a scholar and sociologist, whom he later married.
After the war, Nishi's artistic pursuits took him to Chicago, where he became a member of the Gaka Art Guild and ran a Friday night art club. In 1952, he moved to New York, where he explored various mediums, including sculpture, furniture making, and printmaking. His work often reflected his experiences and the landscapes he encountered, particularly during his seasonal stays in Nova Scotia.
Nishi's art was celebrated in numerous solo exhibitions, including a major retrospective, Ken Nishi: Reflections in Time, at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia in 1999. He passed away on December 9, 2001, in Tappan, New York, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, creativity, and cultural fusion. His life and work continue to inspire, serving as a testament to the enduring power of art in the face of adversity.