Charles William Bartlett

Charles William Bartlett stands among a select few Western artists renowned for crafting designs for woodblock prints in partnership with Tokyo publisher Watanabe Shozaburo. Born on June 1, 1860, in Bridgeport, Dorsetshire, England, Charles W. Bartlett initially explored metallurgy before pursuing studies in painting and etching at the Royal Academy in London and later at a private art school in Paris.

In 1913, Bartlett embarked on what was initially planned as a global expedition. Departing England with his wife, they were unaware that it would mark their final departure from their homeland. Their travels took them through Pakistan, India, Ceylon, Indonesia, and China, during which Bartlett created watercolours and sketches. Notable among his artistic subjects were iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.

In Japan, Bartlett's collaboration with Watanabe Shozaburo flourished, leading to the creation of woodblock prints capturing the essence of Asian landscapes and cultural scenes. These prints, characterized by their intricate details and vibrant colours, reflected Bartlett's deep appreciation for Eastern aesthetics.

While Bartlett's artistry garnered acclaim throughout his travels, it was his time in Honolulu in 1917 that left an indelible mark. Bartlett found himself captivated by the island's beauty, ultimately making it his home until his passing in 1940. His legacy endures through his exceptional woodblock prints, showcasing a harmonious blend of Western and Eastern artistic influences, cementing his status as a master of cross-cultural artistic expression.