Takao Tanabe (b. 1926) is a prominent Canadian landscape painter known for his minimalist style. Born in Prince Rupert, BC, he had early exposure to the natural world through his father's work as a fisherman. Tanabe's education included studying under Joseph Plaskett in Winnipeg, as well as at art institutions in New York, London, and Tokyo.
Tanabe's career spans over seven decades, during which he shifted from abstract painting to a distinctive approach to landscapes, focusing on serene, atmospheric scenes devoid of human intervention. His work often captures the natural world in minimalist compositions, where the light and atmosphere are paramount.
He had a significant role at the Banff School of Fine Arts, and his contributions to Canadian art have earned him numerous accolades, including membership in the Order of Canada and the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts. Tanabe's work is in the collections of major institutions like the National Gallery of Canada and the Vancouver Art Gallery, and he was the subject of a national retrospective in 2005.
His landscapes, often devoid of human elements like buildings or animals, emphasize the purity of nature. His minimalist approach and focus on patterning the landscape have made him one of Canada's most respected contemporary artists.
Below are some of his paintings:
