TANAKA RYUJI (1927-2014)

Tanaka studied Japanese painting at Kyoto City University of Arts. In 1948, he played a pivotal role in founding the Pan Real Association. Even after departing from the group the following year, he remained dedicated to producing and presenting Japanese paintings. His talent was recognized when he won the Japanese Painting Competition Award at the 5th Contemporary Japanese Art Exhibition in 1962.
In 1955, Tanaka encountered Gutai Art Society at the "Experimental Outdoor Modern Art Exhibition to Challenge the Midsummer Burning Sun" which left a profound impact on him. However, it wasn't until a decade later that he officially joined the society. Distinguished from other Gutai artists, Tanaka utilized mineral pigments to create expressive matière works.