#i-53

“Surrendered destroyers, submarines, and other ships of the Japanese Navy moored at Kure after the end of World War II, circa October 1945. Ships include: destroyers, Hanazuki, Natsuzuki, Harutsuki, Yoizuki, Yukaze; submarines, I-47, I-36, I-402, I-203, I-58, I-53. Description: Courtesy of Chief Photographer's Mate John Lee Highfill (retired).”

I-53 and I-58 in Kure harbor, August 1945.

“The real story behind this one ... is the painting itself!”

“You see, I wanted to do this one for a long time, but it was a little risky. I had seen a "technique" (or perhaps one might say, a "gimmick") used by Japanese propaganda illustrators during WWII. It appealed to me as being quite effective and attractive ... but a little bizarre. However, I have decided to give it a try.”

“Essentially, I have painted the foreground subjects as 'photorealistically' as possible, whilst the background (and the whole spirit of the piece) tries to capture the traditional (Meisho e) style of a Japanese woodblock.”

“(All you kids at home ... don't try this! It only seems to work with Japanese subjects ... and I take no responsibility for any repercussions you may incur ... such as ridicule from fellow artists, or worse ...!)”

30″ x 20″ oil on canvas.