Waterslide

A screen print in ink and color on paper from the mid-20th century, this work takes the kinetic subject of a water chute or sliding cascade and translates it into Mizufune Rokushu's abstract visual language. The screen printing technique allows for smooth, flowing color transitions that suit a subject defined by liquid motion. The composition likely features diagonal or curving forms that suggest the downward rush of water, rendered in blues, whites, and greens that evoke transparency and speed. Unlike the static subjects of many sosaku-hanga prints, a waterslide implies movement, gravity, and the brief exhilaration of descent. Mizufune's choice to depict this subject speaks to the playful dimension of his work, which balanced contemplative, poetic pieces like "Lonely Song" and "Solitary Wisdom" with more energetic, physically suggestive imagery.