The artist was born in 1943 in Nagano prefecture. He studied the art of calligraphy from masters such as Nanchyu Saki, Otei Sudzuki and Kintei Negishi. Sekisai Takemae is an expert of the Japanese Institute of Calligraphy, a member of the group of experts of the calligraphy exhibition in Tokyo, a member of the Executive Committee of the Asian Art Exhibition, a member of the International Art Council in Sashyu, the Peacemaking Association of Artists. During his artistic career, the master received an award from the All-Japanese Federation of Calligraphy, as well as the art awards Art Maison and Global Arts. Works of the master have been presented at a number of personal exhibitions in different countries of the world.
The vernissage at Rietumu Art Gallery was held with the participation of the master Sekisai Takemae, the Ambassador of Japan in the Republic of Latvia Toshiyuki Taga, representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture of Latvia, as well as artistic and social circles of Latvia.
As the artist said at the exhibition opening, “Types of art such as painting and music are often referred to as “the language of the world” – they are clear to everyone. In calligraphy, graphic signs form the basis and therefore such art is often harder to perceive. The characteristic feature of calligraphy lies in the fact that, apart from bearing a message, it provides emotional and aesthetic pleasure. And in recent years this traditional Japanese art has attracted international attention.”
Works of the Japanese master will be exhibited at Rietumu Gallery (7 Vesetas Street) until 13 June. The exhibition is open on weekdays from 9 till 18; admission is free.
Once the contest results had been received, a total of twelve prize winners were determined, each of whom received cash bonuses and grants from Rietumu Bank to help them to continue their musical education.