The artwork “Leaping Salmon,” created by artist Ohara Koson, is rendered on paper and belongs to the Shin-hanga art movement. It is a wildlife painting that captures a scene from the natural world.
The artwork depicts a salmon leaping above a tumultuous body of water, with waves crashing against dark rocks. The salmon is positioned mid-air, appearing vigorous and full of life as it ascends. The background is dominated by the dynamic motion of the water, illustrated through carefully rendered splashes and waves, contributing to the sense of energy and movement within the scene. The use of soft colors and delicate brushwork is characteristic of the Shin-hanga style, emphasizing the beauty and transient moments of nature. The composition guides the viewer’s eye from the grounded, detailed depiction of the waves toward the salmon, highlighting its leap and the natural force propelling it.
